WO2025071005A1 - Smart ring device, method, and computer-readable storage medium for identifying wearing direction - Google Patents

Abstract

According to an embodiment, a smart ring device may include: a housing including an external housing portion and an inner housing portion which is at least partially transparent; a light emitter for emitting light through the inner housing portion; a first light receiver for receiving the light reflected from at least a portion of a finger of a user; a second light receiver for receiving the light reflected from at least a portion of the finger of the user; and a processor. The processor may be configured to determine a wearing direction of the smart ring device by using a first signal identified by the first light receiver and a second signal identified by the second light receiver.

Description

Smart ring device, method, and computer-readable storage medium for identifying wearing direction

The following descriptions relate to a smart ring device, a method, and a computer-readable storage medium for identifying a wearing direction.

Various services are provided through wearable devices. Wearable devices can be worn on a part of the user's body and operate. Wearable devices can identify the user's biometric information while worn on a part of the user's body and provide services based on the user's biometric information. A wearable device that can be worn on the user's finger can be referred to as a smart ring device.

The above information may be provided as related art for the purpose of assisting in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art related to the present disclosure.

According to one embodiment, a smart ring device may include a housing including an external housing portion and an inner housing portion that is at least partially transparent, a light emitter that emits light through the inner housing portion, a first light receiver that receives the light reflected on at least a portion of a finger of a user, a second light receiver that receives the light reflected on at least a portion of the finger of the user, and a processor. The processor may be configured to determine a wearing direction of the smart ring device using a first signal identified by the first light receiver and a second signal identified by the second light receiver.

According to one embodiment, a method performed by a smart ring device may include an operation of emitting light using a light emitting unit included in the smart ring device. The method may include an operation of determining a wearing direction of the smart ring device using a first signal identified based on the light reflected from at least a portion of a user's finger by a first light receiving unit included in the smart ring device and a second signal identified based on the light reflected from at least a portion of the user's finger by a second light receiving unit included in the smart ring device.

According to one embodiment, a non-transitory computer readable storage medium may store one or more programs. The one or more programs may include instructions that, when executed by a processor of a smart ring device having a light emitter, a first light receiver, and a second light receiver, cause the smart ring device to emit light using the light emitter. The one or more programs may include instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the smart ring device to determine a wearing direction of the smart ring device using a first signal identified based on light reflected from at least a portion of a user's finger from the first light receiver and a second signal identified based on light reflected from at least a portion of the user's finger from the second light receiver.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary smart ring device, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2b is an example of a partial cross-sectional view of a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2c illustrates an example of a rotatable structure of a smart ring device, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a simplified block diagram of a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example of a light receiving circuit of a PPG sensor according to one embodiment.

FIG. 5A illustrates an example of a wearing orientation of a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 5b illustrates examples of signals identified in the photodetectors of a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 6A illustrates an example of a wearing orientation of a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 6b illustrates examples of signals identified in the photodetectors of a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 7 illustrates the path of light emitted from a light emitting unit according to one embodiment.

FIG. 8 illustrates a flowchart of the operation of a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 9 illustrates the intensity of light emitted based on the operating mode of the smart ring device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 10 illustrates the intensity of light emitted based on the surrounding environment of a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example of operation of a smart ring device to identify a wearing direction of the smart ring device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 12 illustrates a flowchart of the operation of a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a screen indicating the wearing direction of a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 14A illustrates an example of a circuit including a plurality of antennas for changing the direction of a radiated signal, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 14b illustrates an example of a signal radiated from a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 15 illustrates an example of a smart ring device being connected to an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 16 illustrates a flowchart of the operation of a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 17a illustrates an example of scroll input via a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 17b illustrates an example of scroll input via a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 18 illustrates an example of rotation input via a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 19 illustrates an example of an operation for identifying a wearing direction of a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 20 illustrates an example of a smart ring device being connected to an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 21A illustrates an example of a connection between a smart ring device and an external electronic device, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 21b illustrates an example of a connection between a smart ring device and an external electronic device, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 22 illustrates an example of connection between a smart ring device and an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 23 illustrates an example of connection between a smart ring device and an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary smart ring device, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 25 illustrates an example of a smart ring device that can be coupled with an external electronic device, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 26 illustrates an example of a smart ring device that can be coupled with an external electronic device, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 27 illustrates an example of operation of a smart ring device, a first external electronic device, and a second external electronic device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 28 illustrates a flowchart of the operation of an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 29 illustrates an example of operation of a smart ring device and an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 30 illustrates an example of operation of a smart ring device and external electronic devices according to one embodiment.

FIG. 31 illustrates an example of operation of a smart ring device and external electronic devices according to one embodiment.

FIG. 32 illustrates an example of operation of a plurality of smart ring devices and an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for the same or similar components. In addition, in the drawings and related descriptions, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) through a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) through a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) through the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may add one or more other components. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

The processor (120) may control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) by executing, for example, software (e.g., a program (140)), and may perform various data processing or calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or calculation, the processor (120) may store a command or data received from another component (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the command or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a graphic processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together therewith. For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and a secondary processor (123), the secondary processor (123) may be configured to use lower power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a given function. The secondary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a part of functions or states associated with at least one of the components of the electronic device (101) (e.g., the display module (160), the sensor module (176), or the communication module (190)), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing device) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing an artificial intelligence model. The artificial intelligence model may be generated through machine learning. Such learning may be performed, for example, in the electronic device (101) itself on which the artificial intelligence model is executed, or may be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm may include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model may include a plurality of artificial neural network layers. The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), deep Q-networks, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to the hardware structure, the artificial intelligence model may additionally or alternatively include a software structure.

The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or nonvolatile memory (134).

The program (140) may be stored as software in memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

The audio output module (155) can output an audio signal to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive an incoming call. According to one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as a part thereof.

The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) can include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) can include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can obtain sound through an input module (150), or output sound through an audio output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (102)) (e.g., a speaker or a headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

The sensor module (176) can detect an operating state (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or an external environmental state (e.g., user state) and generate an electric signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

The haptic module (179) can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., vibration or movement) or an electrical stimulus that a user can perceive through a tactile or kinesthetic sense. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

The camera module (180) can capture still images and moving images. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) can include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

The battery (189) can power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) can include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

The communication module (190) may support establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102), the electronic device (104), or the server (108)), and performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., the application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a GNSS (global navigation satellite system) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, a corresponding communication module may communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) may use subscriber information (e.g., international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196) to identify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199).

The wireless communication module (192) can support a 5G network and next-generation communication technology after a 4G network, for example, NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), terminal power minimization and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) may support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) may support various requirements specified in an electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) may support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) each, or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from the outside (e.g., an external electronic device). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas by, for example, the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and the external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. According to some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. According to one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC positioned on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) positioned on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

At least some of the above components may be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, a general purpose input and output (GPIO), a serial peripheral interface (SPI), or a mobile industry processor interface (MIPI)).

According to one embodiment, a command or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of executing the function or service by itself or in addition, request one or more external electronic devices to perform at least a part of the function or service. One or more external electronic devices that have received the request may execute at least a part of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may provide the result, as is or additionally processed, as at least a part of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an IoT (Internet of Things) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server using machine learning and/or a neural network. According to an embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199). The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

Hereinafter, a smart ring device wearable on a user's finger will be described. The smart ring device described below may be an example of the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1. The smart ring device described below may include at least some or all of the components of the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1.

FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary smart ring device, according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 2A, the smart ring device (200) may include a housing (201) including a first side (211) facing a part of a user's body (e.g., a finger) and a second side (212) opposite the first side (211). The housing (201) may include side surfaces between the first side (211) and the second side (212). The side surfaces between the first side (211) and the second side (212) may include a first side surface (213) and a second side surface (214).

For example, the smart ring device (200) may include a ring-shaped housing (201). As an example, the smart ring device (200) may be configured in a ring shape. For example, the housing (201) may include an inner housing portion (203) for forming a first surface (211) and an outer housing portion (204) for forming a second surface (212).

According to one embodiment, the smart ring device (200) may be referred to as a wearable device or electronic device that can be worn by a user. The smart ring device (200) may be worn on a part of the user's body (e.g., a finger). For example, the smart ring device (200) may be worn on a part of the user's body. For example, the smart ring device (200) may be fastened to a part of the user's body. For example, the smart ring device (200) may be detachable from a part of the user's body. For example, the smart ring device (200) may have a shape corresponding to a part of the user's body in order to be worn on a part of the user's body.

For example, the smart ring device (200) may be worn by the user and thus come into contact with a part of the user's body. For example, the smart ring device (200) may be configured to obtain information about the user through a part of the user's body by being worn by the user. As an example, the information about the user may include health information about the user. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. The health information about the user may include the user's heart rate and/or oxygen saturation. The smart ring device (200) may include an HRM (heart rate measurement) sensor for identifying (or measuring, monitoring) the user's heart rate and/or oxygen saturation. As an example, the information about the user may include the user's behavior information. The smart ring device (200) may identify (or measure, monitor) whether the user is exercising and/or the user's posture.

For example, the smart ring device (200) may provide information about the user through the smart ring device (200) and/or an external electronic device connected to the smart ring device (200). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the first surface (211) may come into contact with a part of the user's body when the smart ring device (200) is worn by the user. For example, the first surface (211) may surround a part of the user's body on which the smart ring device (200) is worn. For example, the first surface (211) may cover a part of the user's body on which the smart ring device (200) is worn. For example, the first surface (211) may be configured to pressurize a part of the user's body when the smart ring device (200) is worn by the user, thereby causing the smart ring device (200) to be fastened to the part of the body. For example, the first surface (211) may be deformable by a part of the user's body. For example, the smart ring device (200) can provide information about the user through the first surface (211) based on haptic technology. As an example, the smart ring device (200) can provide information indicating that the user's heart rate is higher than a specified heart rate by outputting vibration.

For example, the second surface (212) may form an outer appearance of the smart ring device (200) together with the first surface (211). For example, the second surface (212) may form a ring-shaped housing (201) together with the first surface (211). For example, the second surface (212) may be a surface spaced from a part of a user's body when the smart ring device (200) is worn by the user. For example, the first surface (211) may be referred to as an inner circumference surface of the housing (201). The second surface (212) opposite to the first surface (211) may be referred to as an outer circumference surface of the housing (201).

For example, the second side (212) may be exposed to the outside when the smart ring device (200) is worn by the user. The second side (212) may be composed of at least one of titanium, stainless steel, and ceramic. The second side (212) may be composed of a material for protection against external impact and/or scratches. Depending on the embodiment, the second side (212) may be coated with an additional material for protection of the color of the smart ring device (200) and/or the appearance of the smart ring device (200).

For example, the first side (211) can be composed of the same and/or similar material as the second side (212). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first side (211) can be composed of at least one of a molding material for acquiring data, a transparent plastic, and/or glass. For example, at least a portion of the inner housing portion (203) can be transparent. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first side (211) can be composed of a metal for identifying a biosignal.

According to one embodiment, the smart ring device (200) may further include a hole (270) formed by the first surface (211) for passing a part of a user's body through the smart ring device (200) when the user wears it. For example, the hole (270) may be penetrated by a part of a user's body when the user wears the smart ring device (200). The smart ring device (200) may be configured to be fastened to a part of a user's body when the user wears the smart ring device (200) by including a hole (270) configured to pass a part of the user's body through it.

According to one embodiment, the smart ring device (200) may further include one or more components between the first side (211) and the second side (212). For example, the smart ring device (200) may include one or more components between the first side (211) and the second side (212). The arrangement of the one or more components will be described later in FIG. 2b.

According to one embodiment, the smart ring device (200) may include a structure (215) that is rotatable on the outer housing portion (204) (or the second surface (212)) with respect to the center of the hole (270) of the smart ring device (200). The structure (215) may be rotatable along the outer housing portion (204). Depending on a motion of a user rotating the structure (215), a rotational input may be identified in the smart ring device (200). The rotational input may be identified based on a motion of the user rotating the structure (215). The motion of the user rotating the structure (215) may be referred to as a rotational input. A specific structure of the smart ring device (200) for identifying a rotational input will be described later with reference to FIG. 2B.

FIG. 2b is an example of a partial cross-sectional view of a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 2b, example (291) is a partial cross-sectional view of the smart ring device (200) viewed in the x-axis direction of FIG. 2a. Example (292) is a partial cross-sectional view of the smart ring device (200) viewed in the y-axis direction of FIG. 2a.

In the example (291), the smart ring device (200) may be formed in a ring shape. For example, the housing (201) of the smart ring device (200) may be formed in a ring shape that can be worn on a user's finger. In FIGS. 2A and 2B, a smart ring device (200) having a smooth ring shape is illustrated as an example, but is not limited thereto. For example, the smart ring device (200) may be implemented as a housing including a plurality of planes. For example, a smart ring device (200) having a non-smooth ring shape may also be understood as an embodiment of the present disclosure.

According to one embodiment, the ring-shaped housing (201) may include a first side (211) that comes into contact with a user's body when worn by a user, a second side (212) that is exposed to the outside, and side surfaces between the first side (211) and the second side (212). The side surfaces between the first side (211) and the second side (212) may include a first side surface (213) and a second side surface (214). For example, the first side (211) and the second side (212) may include a space for including (or arranging) at least one component (e.g., a processor (210), a communication circuit (220), an acceleration sensor (231), a gyro sensor (232), a PPG sensor (233), a temperature sensor (234), and a memory (240)).

According to one embodiment, a PCB (251) may be placed between the first side (211) and the second side (212) of the smart ring device (200). For example, a processor (210), a communication circuit (220), an acceleration sensor (231), a gyro sensor (232), a PPG sensor (233), a temperature sensor (234), a memory (240), and/or a PMIC (254) may be placed on the PCB (251). For example, the PCB (251) may be composed of a rigid region and a flexible region. As an example, the rigid region may be referred to as a rigid flexible printed circuit board (RFPCB). As an example, the flexible region may be referred to as a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB).

For example, the PPG sensor (233) may include one or more light emitting units (233-1), one or more light receiving circuits (233-2), and a control circuit (233-3). As an example, the one or more light emitting circuits (233-1) and the one or more light receiving circuits (233-2) may be arranged toward the first side (211). As an example, the control circuit (233-3) may be arranged toward the second side (212). Example (292) illustrates a side view of a smart ring device (200). In example (292), the one or more light emitting circuits (233-1) and the one or more light receiving circuits (233-2) may be arranged at different locations within the smart ring device (200). For example, the number of the one or more light emitting circuits (233-1) and the number of the one or more light receiving circuits (233-2) may be configured differently. According to an embodiment, the number of one or more light-emitting circuits (233-1) and the number of one or more light-receiving circuits (233-2) may be configured to be the same. For example, one or more light-receiving circuits (233-2) corresponding to each of one or more light-emitting circuits (233-1) may be configured within the smart ring device (200).

For example, the temperature sensor (234) may be used to measure (or detect, identify) the temperature of a part of the user's body or the temperature of a component of the smart ring device (200). The temperature sensor (234) may include one of a contact temperature sensor and a non-contact temperature sensor.

For example, the PMIC (254) may be used to manage power of the smart ring device (200). The PMIC (254) may be used to provide (or distribute) power to components that require power in the smart ring device (200). The PMIC (254) may support a wired charging method (e.g., terminal, pogo pin) or a wireless charging method (e.g., WPC (wireless power consortium), NFC) for charging the smart ring device (200) through the charging interface (253).

According to one embodiment, a battery (252) may be placed between the first side (211) and the second side (212) of the smart ring device (200). The battery (252) may be composed of at least one battery (or battery pack). For example, the battery (252) may be configured such that at least one battery is connected in series and/or in parallel. For example, the battery (252) may be composed of a flexible battery pack. For example, the battery (252) may be charged and/or discharged as a secondary battery. For example, the material constituting the battery (252) may be composed of various materials. For example, the material constituting the battery (252) may include at least one of lithium ion and mercury.

According to one embodiment, an antenna (255) may be disposed between the first side (211) and the second side (212) of the smart ring device (200). For example, the antenna (255) may be composed of a single antenna and/or a plurality of segmented antennas. According to an embodiment, the antenna (255) may be composed of a part of the housing (201) of the smart ring device (200). For example, the antenna (255) may be electrically connected to the communication circuit (220) through the PCB (251). For example, the antenna (255) may include a first antenna configured to emit a signal based on a first direction and a second antenna configured to emit a signal based on a second direction opposite to the first direction. Depending on the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200), at least one of the first antenna and the second antenna may be activated.

FIG. 2b illustrates an example of components included in the smart ring device (200), but is not limited thereto. Although not illustrated, the smart ring device (200) may further include various components in addition to the illustrated components. For example, the smart ring device (200) may further include a rotation detection sensor for identifying a rotation input according to the rotation of the structure (215). The rotation detection sensor will be described later in FIG. 2c. For example, the smart ring device (200) may include a display. The display may be arranged on an outer surface of the housing (201).

According to one embodiment, a specific description of at least one component (e.g., a processor (210), a communication circuit (220), a PPG sensor (233), a memory (240)) for identifying the wearing direction of a smart ring device (200) will be described later in FIG. 3.

FIG. 2c illustrates an example of a rotatable structure of a smart ring device, according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 2c, the smart ring device (200) may include a rotatable structure (215) on an outer housing portion (204) (or second surface (212)) of the housing (201). The structure (215) may be configured to be rotatable along the outer housing portion (204). For example, the housing (201) may be referred to as an inner ring. The structure (215) may be referred to as an outer ring.

According to one embodiment, a rotational input can be identified based on the rotation of the structure (215). In order to identify the rotation of the structure (215), one or more rotational detection sensors (280) may be included. The one or more rotational detection sensors (280) may be disposed between the first face (211) and the second face (212). For example, the structure (215) may be composed of a magnetic material (or a magnetic material). Based on a change in a magnetic field identified by the one or more rotational detection sensors (280) as the structure (215) rotates, the rotational input can be identified. The one or more rotational detection sensors (280) may identify a rotational speed and a rotational direction of the structure (215).

For example, the one or more rotation detection sensors (280) may include rotation detection sensors (280-1) to rotation detection sensors (280-5). The rotation detection sensors (280-1) to rotation detection sensors (280-5) may be arranged in the smart ring device (200) at equal or similar intervals. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. FIG. 2C illustrates an example in which the number of the one or more rotation detection sensors (280) is configured as five, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The number of the one or more rotation detection sensors (280) may be configured in various ways.

Example (295) shows a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A'. In example (295), a structure (215) can be rotated within a gap of a housing (201) of a smart ring device (200). The structure (215) can be at least partially spaced from the housing (201). Although not shown, the structure (215) may further include a connecting member that rotatably connects the structure (215) within the gap of the housing (201). According to an embodiment, the smart ring device (200) may further include a guide member for guiding the rotation of the structure (215). The guide member may be configured to allow the structure (215) to rotate discontinuously. For example, the guide member may include a crown gear.

In one embodiment, the smart ring device (200) can identify (or determine) the direction of movement of the structure (215). For example, the smart ring device (200) can identify that the structure (215) is moving in a first direction (e.g., clockwise) based on a portion of the structure (215) moving from the rotation detection sensor (280-1) to the rotation detection sensor (280-2). For example, the smart ring device (200) can identify that the structure (215) is moving in a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise) based on a portion of the structure (215) moving from the rotation detection sensor (280-1) to the rotation detection sensor (280-5).

The smart ring device (200) illustrated in FIGS. 2A to 2C is exemplary, and components of the smart ring device (200) or the structure (e.g., external structure or internal structure) of the smart ring device (200) may be variously changed depending on the embodiment. For example, the smart ring device (200) may not include the structure (215). The smart ring device (200) may further include a touch sensor for identifying contact of a user's body on the external housing portion (204). The smart ring device (200) may identify a touch input using the touch sensor. The smart ring device (200) may identify a direction of a touch input. The smart ring device (200) may identify a rotational direction and/or a rotational amount of a rotational input based on the touch input.

According to one embodiment, the smart ring device (200) may be used not only to obtain information about a user, but also to control an external electronic device connected to the smart ring device (200). The smart ring device (200) may identify a rotation input based on the rotation of a rotatable structure (215) included in the smart ring device (200). The smart ring device (200) may control an external electronic device based on the rotation input. However, since the smart ring device (200) is configured in a ring shape, the wearing direction may change. The direction of the rotation input may change depending on the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200). When a user of the smart ring device (200) performs a rotation input while wearing the smart ring device (200), the smart ring device (200) may identify the rotation input as a different input depending on the wearing direction. Therefore, technical features for identifying the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) will be described below.

FIG. 3 is a simplified block diagram of a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 3, the smart ring device (200) may include a processor (210), a communication circuit (220), a sensor (230), and/or a memory (240). Depending on an embodiment, the smart ring device (200) may include at least one of the processor (210), the communication circuit (220), the sensor (230), and/or the memory (240). For example, at least some of the processor (210), the communication circuit (220), the sensor (230), and/or the memory (240) may be omitted depending on an embodiment. For example, the smart ring device (200) may correspond to the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1. For example, the smart ring device (200) may include at least some of the components of the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1.

In one embodiment, the processor (210) may correspond to the processor (120) of FIG. 1. The processor (210) may be operatively or operably coupled with or connected with the communication circuit (220), the sensor (230), and the memory (240). The processor (210) being operatively or operably coupled with the communication circuit (220), the sensor (230), and the memory (240) may mean that the processor (210) can control the communication circuit (220), the sensor (230), and the memory (240). For example, the communication circuit (220), the sensor (230), and the memory (240) may be controlled by the processor (210).

Although illustrated based on different blocks, the embodiment is not limited thereto, and some of the hardware of FIG. 3 (e.g., at least a portion of the processor (210), the communication circuit (220), and the memory (240)) may be included in a single integrated circuit, such as a system on a chip (SoC).

According to one embodiment, the processor (210) may be composed of at least one processor. For example, the processor (210) may be composed of a main processor that performs high-performance processing and a secondary processor that performs low-power processing. At least some of the sensors (230) may be connected to the secondary processor. At least some of the sensors connected to the secondary processor may obtain data about the user for 24 hours. According to one embodiment, one of the main processor and the secondary processor may be activated depending on the state and/or operation of the external electronic device (300). For example, the processor to be activated may be determined depending on the state and/or operation of the external electronic device (300). For example, when the battery of the external electronic device (300) is low or the external electronic device (300) is changed to a sleep state (e.g., a state in which at least some functions are disabled), the secondary processor for low-power processing may be activated. For example, when accurate data about the user is required, the main processor may be activated to perform high-performance processing.

According to one embodiment, the processor (210) may include a hardware component for processing data based on one or more instructions. The hardware component for processing data may include, for example, an arithmetic and logic unit (ALU), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), and/or a central processing unit (CPU).

For example, the processor (210) may include an application processor, a supplementary processor (e.g., a sensor hub, a microcontroller unit (MCU)), a central processor unit (CPU), a neural processing unit (NPU), a graphic processing unit (GPU), and/or a processor for IoT (e.g., a processor integrated with a communication module).

According to one embodiment, the processor (210) can determine the operating time of the sensor (230). The processor (210) can control the operation of the sensor (230). The processor (210) can process information obtained from the sensor (230).

According to one embodiment, the smart ring device (200) may include a communication circuit (220). The communication circuit (220) may correspond to at least a part of the communication module (190) of FIG. 1. For example, the communication circuit (220) may be used for various radio access technologies (RATs). For example, the communication circuit (220) may be used to perform Bluetooth communication, wireless local area network (WLAN) communication, zigbee communication, near field communication (NFC), ultra wide band (UWB) communication, radio-frequency identification (RFID) communication, or ANT+ communication. For example, the communication circuit (220) may be used to perform cellular communication (e.g., fourth generation (4G) communication, fifth generation (5G) communication, sixth generation (6G) communication, or narrow band IoT (NB-IoT)). For example, the processor (210) may establish a connection with an external electronic device through the communication circuit (220). For example, the processor (210) may identify (or measure) the location of the smart ring device (200) based on a wireless signal (e.g., a global positioning system (GPS) signal or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) signal) received or transmitted by using the communication circuit (220). According to an embodiment, the communication circuit (220) may be configured to be integrated with the processor (210).

According to one embodiment, the smart ring device (200) may include a sensor (230). The sensor (230) may be used to obtain various information. For example, the sensor (230) may be used to obtain information about a user. The information about the user may include data about the user's body. As an example, the sensor (230) may be used to obtain body temperature data (or body temperature information), heart rate data (or heart rate information), and/or motion data (or motion information) of the user. For example, the sensor (230) may be composed of at least one sensor. The sensor (230) may include at least one sensor. For example, the sensor (230) may correspond to the sensor module (176) of FIG. 1.

For example, the sensor (230) may include an acceleration sensor (231). The acceleration sensor (231) may be used to identify a change in acceleration of the smart ring device (200). As an example, the acceleration sensor (231) may identify (or measure, detect) acceleration of the smart ring device (200) in three directions: the x-axis, the y-axis, and the z-axis.

For example, the sensor (230) may include a gyro sensor (232). The gyro sensor (232) may identify (or measure, detect) the angular velocity of the smart ring device (200) in three directions: the x-axis, the y-axis, and the z-axis. According to an embodiment, the smart ring device (200) may include an inertial sensor including an acceleration sensor (231) and a gyro sensor (232).

For example, the smart ring device (200) may use at least one of an acceleration sensor (231) and/or a gyro sensor (232) to identify at least one of data regarding movement of the smart ring device (200), data regarding a user's gesture, data regarding an amount of impact, data regarding a direction in which the smart ring device (200) is worn, data regarding a posture (or orientation) of the smart ring device (200), and/or activity information of the user (e.g., sitting, moving, sports activity).

For example, the sensor (230) may include a PPG (photoplethysmography) sensor (233). The PPG sensor (233) may be used to measure a pulse (or a change in blood volume in a blood vessel) by identifying a change in the amount of light sensitivity according to a change in blood vessel volume. The PPG sensor (233) may include one or more PDs (photodiodes) and one or more LEDs (light emitting diodes). For example, the PPG sensor (233) may be used to identify a change in blood flow in a blood vessel during a heartbeat. The PPG sensor (233) may identify a change in blood flow in a blood vessel during a heartbeat when the light sensor is in contact with the skin over a peripheral blood vessel. The processor (210) may identify blood flow and identify a change in blood flow based on the PPG signal and waveform.

For example, the PPG sensor (233) may include a transmissive PPG sensor and/or a reflective PPG sensor.

For example, the PPG sensor (233) may output light toward the user's skin via one of an LED (e.g., green, red, or IR (infrared)), a laser, and a VCSEL (vertical cavity surface emitting laser). The PPG sensor (233) may identify light reflected and/or transmitted from the user's skin via at least one of a PD and/or a CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) camera. The PPG sensor (233) may store values identified via an ADC (analog to digital converter) based on the reflected and/or transmitted light in a memory (240) (or buffer).

For example, a transmissive PPG sensor can identify light that has passed through a blood vessel through a PD positioned opposite the LED. The transmissive PPG sensor can identify a user's blood flow rate based on the intensity of the light that has passed through the blood vessel. For example, a reflective PPG sensor can output light toward the user's skin through an LED. The reflective PPG sensor can identify light that has been reflected by a blood vessel and at least partly received through a PD positioned on substantially the same surface as the LED. The reflective PPG sensor can identify a user's blood flow rate based on the intensity of the light reflected by the blood vessel. For example, a multi-light source may be used with an LED. For example, a green light that is complementary to blood may be used as the LED.

Although not illustrated, the sensor (230) may further include various sensors (e.g., a temperature sensor) for obtaining (or identifying, measuring, detecting) various data about the user and/or the smart ring device (200). Although not illustrated, if the smart ring device (200) includes the structure (215), the sensor (230) may further include one or more rotation detection sensors (e.g., rotation detection sensors (280) of FIG. 2c).

According to one embodiment, the smart ring device (200) may include a memory (240). The memory (240) may be used to store information or data. For example, the memory (240) may be used to store data obtained from a user. For example, the memory (240) may correspond to the memory (130) of FIG. 1. For example, the memory (240) may be a volatile memory unit or units. For example, the memory (240) may be a non-volatile memory unit or units. For another example, the memory (240) may be another form of computer-readable media, such as a magnetic or optical disk. For example, the memory (240) may store data obtained based on an operation performed by the processor (210) (e.g., an algorithm execution operation). For example, the memory (240) may store data obtained from the sensor (230) (e.g., information about the user). According to an embodiment, the memory (240) may be configured in an integrated form with the processor (210).

Although not illustrated in FIG. 3, the smart ring device (200) may further include various components. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2b, the smart ring device (200) may further include at least one of an antenna (255), a power management integrated circuit (PMIC) (254), a battery (252), and a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). According to an embodiment, the smart ring device (200) may further include a biometric sensor (e.g., an ECG sensor) including a PPG sensor (233).

According to one embodiment, the smart ring device (200) may further include various components in addition to the illustrated components. According to one embodiment, the smart ring device (200) may further include a display.

According to one embodiment, the smart ring device (200) can operate while connected to an external electronic device (300). For example, the smart ring device (200) can be used to perform input of the external electronic device (300).

According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (300) may include a processor (310), a communication circuit (320), a display (330), and/or a memory (340). According to an embodiment, the external electronic device (300) may include at least one of the processor (310), the communication circuit (320), the display (330), and the memory (340). For example, at least some of the processor (310), the communication circuit (320), the display (330), and the memory (340) may be omitted according to an embodiment. For example, the external electronic device (300) may include at least some of the components of the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1.

For example, the processor (310) of the external electronic device (300) may correspond to the processor (210) of the smart ring device (200). The communication circuit (320) of the external electronic device (300) may correspond to the communication circuit (220) of the smart ring device (200). The memory (340) of the external electronic device (300) may correspond to the memory (240) of the smart ring device (200).

For example, the external electronic device (300) may include a display (330). The display (330) may output visualized information to a user. For example, the display (330) may be controlled by a processor (360) including a circuit such as a GPU (graphic processing unit) to output visualized information to a user. For example, the display (330) may correspond to the display module (160) of FIG. 1.

According to one embodiment, the memory (340) of the external electronic device (300) may store instructions for processing a user input (e.g., a rotation input) received from the smart ring device (200). For example, the function for processing a rotation input according to the instructions may be in a deactivated state before being connected to the smart ring device (200). The function for processing a rotation input may be activated based on the connection to the smart ring device (200).

According to an embodiment, the external electronic device (300) may include a rotating bezel or a rotating structure. For example, the rotating structure may be configured based on a crown type (or crown gear). The memory (340) may store instructions for processing a user input received (or identified) from the external electronic device (300) or a user input received (or identified) from the smart ring device (200).

According to one embodiment, when the external electronic device (300) is a smart watch, the connection between the external electronic device (300) and the smart ring device (200) may be managed by another external electronic device (not shown) (e.g., a terminal, a smartphone). According to one embodiment, when the external electronic device (300) is a smart watch, the external electronic device (300) may identify not only a general touch input (e.g., a press input, a long-press input, a double-tap input, or a drag input), but also a rotational input. The external electronic device (300) configured in a circular shape may include a physical rotary bezel, or may include a virtual, touchable rotary bezel along the housing of the external electronic device (300).

FIG. 4 illustrates an example of a light receiving circuit of a PPG sensor according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 4, the PPG sensor (233) may include a light receiving circuit (400). For example, the light receiving circuit (400) may be an example of one or more light receiving circuits (233-2) illustrated in FIG. 2b.

According to one embodiment, the light receiving circuit (400) may include one or more light receiving units. For example, the light receiving circuit (400) may include four light receiving units. The light receiving circuit (400) may include a first light receiving unit (401), a second light receiving unit (402), a third light receiving unit (403), and a fourth light receiving unit (404). Although FIG. 4 illustrates an example in which the light receiving circuit (400) includes four light receiving units, the present invention is not limited thereto. The light receiving circuit (400) may include only the first light receiving unit (401) and the second light receiving unit (402).

The first light receiving unit (401) may be connected to the processor (210) through an ADC (410). The second light receiving unit (402) may be connected to the processor (210) through an ADC (420). The third light receiving unit (403) may be connected to the processor (210) through an ADC (430). The fourth light receiving unit (404) may be connected to the processor (210) through an ADC (440). The ADCs (410) to (440) may be used to change an analog signal regarding light identified in each of the first to fourth light receiving units (401) to (404) into a digital signal.

For example, each of the first to fourth light-receiving units (401) to (404) may include at least one photodiode (or PD). Each of the first to fourth light-receiving units (401) to (404) may be composed of at least one photodiode. As an example, the first light-receiving unit (401) may include at least one photodiode. The second light-receiving unit (402) may include at least one other photodiode.

According to one embodiment, the processor (210) may identify a first signal using the first light-receiving unit (401). The processor (210) may identify a second signal using the second light-receiving unit (402). The processor (210) may identify a third signal using the third light-receiving unit (403). The processor (210) may identify a fourth signal using the fourth light-receiving unit (404). For example, the first signal may include a first value for the magnitude of light reflected from at least a portion of a user's finger by light emitted through the light-emitting circuit (233-1). The second signal may include a second value for the magnitude of light reflected from at least a portion of a user's finger by light emitted through the light-emitting circuit (233-1). The third signal may include a third value for the magnitude of light reflected from at least a portion of a user's finger by light emitted through the light-emitting circuit (233-1). The fourth signal may include a fourth value for the magnitude of light emitted through the light emitting circuit (233-1) and reflected from at least a portion of the user's finger.

According to one embodiment, the processor (210) can identify the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) by using at least one of the first to fourth signals. Hereinafter, an example of an operation of the smart ring device (200) to identify the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) by using at least one of the first to fourth signals will be described.

FIG. 5A illustrates an example of a wearing orientation of a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 5b illustrates examples of signals identified in the photodetectors of a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 6A illustrates an example of a wearing orientation of a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 6b illustrates examples of signals identified in the photodetectors of a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 5A and 6A, the smart ring device (200) can be worn in one of the first direction and the second direction. For example, the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) can include the first direction and the second direction. FIG. 5A illustrates a case where the smart ring device (200) is worn in the first direction. FIG. 6A illustrates a case where the smart ring device (200) is worn in the second direction. Since the smart ring device (200) has no limitation on the wearing direction, it can be worn in one of the first direction and the second direction.

Referring to FIG. 5A, when the smart ring device (200) is worn in the first direction, the direction in which the first side (213) faces may correspond to the direction in which the finger on which the smart ring device (200) is worn faces. When the smart ring device (200) is worn in the first direction, the second side (214) may come closer to the finger before the first side (213). When the smart ring device (200) is worn in the first direction, the second side (214) may be positioned toward the dorsum of the hand. The first side (213) may be positioned toward the nail.

Referring to FIG. 6A, when the smart ring device (200) is worn in the second direction, the direction in which the second side (214) faces may correspond to the direction in which the finger on which the smart ring device (200) is worn faces. When the smart ring device (200) is worn in the second direction, the first side (213) may come closer to the finger before the second side (214). When the smart ring device (200) is worn in the second direction, the first side (213) may be positioned toward the dorsum of the hand. The second side (214) may be positioned toward the nail.

Referring to FIGS. 5A and 6A, as illustrated in FIG. 2B, a light receiving circuit (400) may be arranged on at least a portion of the first surface (211). Light emitted from one or more light emitting circuits (233-1) of the PPG sensor (233) may be reflected from a user's finger. The light receiving circuit (400) (or one or more light receiving circuits (233-2)) may identify (or detect) the reflected light.

For example, the light receiving circuit (400) may include a first light receiving unit (401), a second light receiving unit (402), a third light receiving unit (403), and a fourth light receiving unit (404). The first light receiving unit (401) and the third light receiving unit (403) may be arranged closer to the first side (213) than the second side (214). The second light receiving unit (402) and the fourth light receiving unit (404) may be arranged closer to the second side (214) than the first side (213). Accordingly, signals identified in the plurality of light receiving units (e.g., the first light receiving unit (401), the second light receiving unit (402), the third light receiving unit (403), and the fourth light receiving unit (404)) may be different depending on the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200). For example, when the smart ring device (200) is worn in the first direction, signals identified in the plurality of light-receiving units of the light-receiving circuit (400) can be identified (or configured) as in FIG. 5b. When the smart ring device (200) is worn in the second direction, signals identified in the plurality of light-receiving units of the light-receiving circuit (400) can be identified (or configured) as in FIG. 6b.

Referring to FIG. 5b, the graph (510) represents the size of the first signal identified through the first light-receiving unit (401) over time. The graph (520) represents the size of the second signal identified through the second light-receiving unit (402) over time. The graph (530) represents the size of the third signal identified through the third light-receiving unit (403) over time. The graph (540) represents the size of the fourth signal identified through the fourth light-receiving unit (404) over time.

Depending on the wearing of the smart ring device (200), the point at which the signal size becomes saturated may vary for each light-receiving unit. For example, when the smart ring device (200) is worn in the first direction, it can approach the user's finger from the second side (214).

For example, the processor (210) can identify an amount of change in the first signal (or the first value for the light intensity) and an amount of change in the second signal (or the second value for the light intensity) at a specified time point (e.g., time point (501)). The amount of change in the first signal (or the first value for the light intensity) at the specified time point (e.g., time point (501)) can be less than the amount of change in the second signal (or the second value for the light intensity).

For example, light receiving units (e.g., the second light receiving unit (402) and the fourth light receiving unit (404)) positioned close to the second side (214) can first identify light reflected on the user's finger. After light is identified by the light receiving units positioned close to the second side (214), light receiving units (e.g., the first light receiving unit (401) and the third light receiving unit (403)) positioned far from the second side (214) can identify light reflected on the user's finger.

Signals identified in the light-receiving units (e.g., the second light-receiving unit (402) and the fourth light-receiving unit (404)) positioned closer to the second side (214) may be saturated earlier than signals identified in the light-receiving units (e.g., the first light-receiving unit (401) and the third light-receiving unit (403)) positioned farther from the second side (214). The second signal identified through the second light-receiving unit (402) and the fourth signal identified through the fourth light-receiving unit (404) may be saturated at time point (501). The first signal identified through the first light-receiving unit (401) and the third signal identified through the third light-receiving unit (403) may be saturated at time point (502).

Referring to FIG. 6b, the graph (610) represents the size of the first signal identified through the first light-receiving unit (401) over time. The graph (620) represents the size of the second signal identified through the second light-receiving unit (402) over time. The graph (630) represents the size of the third signal identified through the third light-receiving unit (403) over time. The graph (640) represents the size of the fourth signal identified through the fourth light-receiving unit (404) over time.

The point at which the signal size becomes saturated may vary for each light-receiving unit depending on the wearing of the smart ring device (200). For example, when the smart ring device (200) is worn in the second direction, it can approach the user's finger from the first side (213).

For example, the processor (210) can identify an amount of change in the first signal (or the first value for the light intensity) and an amount of change in the second signal (or the second value for the light intensity) at a specified time point (e.g., time point (601)). The amount of change in the first signal (or the first value for the light intensity) at the specified time point (e.g., time point (601)) can be greater than or equal to the amount of change in the second signal (or the second value for the light intensity).

For example, light receiving units (e.g., the first light receiving unit (401) and the third light receiving unit (403)) positioned close to the first side (213) can first identify light reflected on the user's finger. After light is identified by the light receiving units positioned close to the first side (213), light receiving units (e.g., the second light receiving unit (402) and the fourth light receiving unit (404)) positioned far from the first side (213) can identify light reflected on the user's finger.

Signals identified by light-receiving units (e.g., the first light-receiving unit (401) and the third light-receiving unit (403)) positioned closer to the first side (213) may be saturated earlier than signals identified by light-receiving units (e.g., the second light-receiving unit (402) and the fourth light-receiving unit (404)) positioned farther from the first side (213). The first signal identified by the first light-receiving unit (401) and the third signal identified by the third light-receiving unit (403) may be saturated at time point (601). The second signal identified by the second light-receiving unit (402) and the fourth signal identified by the fourth light-receiving unit (404) may be saturated at time point (602).

Referring to FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B, the processor (210) may identify the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) as one of the first direction and the second direction based on the order in which light is identified (or the order in which signals are saturated) from the plurality of light receiving units. The processor (210) may identify the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) as the first direction based on the fact that the second light receiving unit (402) and the fourth light receiving unit (404) identify light before the first light receiving unit (401) and the third light receiving unit (403). The processor (210) may identify the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) as the second direction based on the fact that the first light receiving unit (401) and the third light receiving unit (403) identify light before the second light receiving unit (402) and the fourth light receiving unit (404).

Referring to FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B, the processor (210) may identify the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) as one of the first direction and the second direction based on the amount of change in the first signal (or the first value for the light size) and the amount of change in the second signal (or the second value for the light size). The processor (210) may identify the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) as the first direction based on identifying that the amount of change in the first signal (or the first value for the light size) is less than the amount of change in the second signal (or the second value for the light size). The processor (210) may identify the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) as the second direction based on identifying that the amount of change in the first signal (or the first value for the light size) is greater than or equal to the amount of change in the second signal (or the second value for the light size).

For example, the processor (210) may perform a function according to user input (e.g., rotation input, touch input) generated while the smart ring device (200) is worn by the user, based on the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200).

FIG. 7 illustrates the path of light emitted from a light emitting unit according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 7, the smart ring device (200) may include a light emitting circuit (701), a light emitting circuit (702), a light emitting circuit (703), a light receiving circuit (711), a light receiving circuit (712), and a light receiving circuit (713). Each of the light emitting circuit (701), the light emitting circuit (702), and the light receiving circuit (703) may emit light. The light emitted through the light emitting circuit (701), the light emitting circuit (702), and the light emitting circuit (703) may be reflected onto a user's finger (700), and the reflected light may be identified through the light receiving circuit (711), the light receiving circuit (712), and the light receiving circuit (713). For example, the light emitting circuit (701), the light emitting circuit (702), and the light receiving circuit (703) may be examples of one or more of the light emitting circuits (233-1) described in FIG. 2B. The light receiving circuit (711), the light receiving circuit (712) and the light receiving circuit (713) may be examples of one or more of the light receiving circuits (233-2) described in FIG. 2b.

For convenience of explanation, Fig. 7 illustrates examples of paths of light emitted through a light-emitting circuit (701). Although not illustrated, light emitted from a light-emitting circuit (702) and a light-emitting circuit (703) may travel in a manner similar to the paths of light emitted through a light-emitting circuit (701) described below.

According to one embodiment, the light emitting circuit (701) can emit light. For example, the light emitting circuit (701) can emit light based on a specified time interval (or a specified period). The light receiving circuit (711), the light receiving circuit (712), or the light receiving circuit (713) can identify light based on the specified time interval (or the specified period). For example, the processor (210) can activate one or more light emitting circuits (e.g., the light emitting circuit (701), the light emitting circuit (702), and the light emitting circuit (703)) and one or more light receiving circuits (e.g., the light receiving circuit (711), the light receiving circuit (712), and the light receiving circuit (713)) based on the specified time interval (or the specified period). Since the one or more light emitting circuits and the one or more light receiving circuits are activated based on the specified time interval (or the specified period), current consumption can be minimized. According to an embodiment, the processor (210) may identify that the user is wearing the smart ring device (200) by using the acceleration sensor (231) and/or the gyro sensor (232). The processor (210) may operate in an operation mode for identifying a wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) based on identifying that the user is wearing the smart ring device (200). Based on the operation mode for identifying the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200), the processor (210) may activate one or more light-emitting circuits (e.g., light-emitting circuit (701), light-emitting circuit (702), and light-emitting circuit (703)) and one or more light-receiving circuits (e.g., light-receiving circuit (711), light-receiving circuit (712), or light-receiving circuit (713)) based on a designated time interval (or designated cycle). For example, an operation mode for identifying a wearing direction of a smart ring device (200) may be distinguished from an operation mode for identifying information about a user (e.g., information about blood flow). Specific examples of operations of one or more light-emitting circuits in each of the operation mode for identifying a wearing direction of a smart ring device (200) and the operation mode for identifying information about a user (e.g., information about blood flow) will be described later in FIG. 9.

According to one embodiment, when the smart ring device (200) is not worn on the user's finger, light emitted through the light emitting circuit (701) may not be identified by the light receiving circuit (711), the light receiving circuit (712), or the light receiving circuit (713). When the smart ring device (200) is not worn on the user's finger, a value representing the intensity of light identified by the light receiving circuit (711), the light receiving circuit (712), or the light receiving circuit (713) may be less than a threshold value. The processor (210) may identify that the smart ring device (200) is not worn on the user based on identifying that the value representing the intensity of light identified by the light receiving circuit (711), the light receiving circuit (712), or the light receiving circuit (713) is less than the threshold value.

When the smart ring device (200) is worn on the user's finger (700), light emitted through the light emitting circuit (701) can be identified by the light receiving circuit (711), the light receiving circuit (712), or the light receiving circuit (713). For example, light emitted through the light emitting circuit (701) can be reflected from the user's finger (700). Light reflected from the user's finger (700) can be identified by the light receiving circuit (711) through a path (761). Light reflected from the user's finger (700) can be identified by the light receiving circuit (713) through a path (762). For example, light emitted through the light emitting circuit (701) can transmit through the user's finger (700). Light transmitted through the user's finger (700) can be identified by the light receiving circuit (712) through a path (763).

The processor (210) can identify whether the smart ring device (200) is worn on the user's finger based on signals identified in the light receiving circuit (711), the light receiving circuit (712), and the light receiving circuit (713). The processor (210) can identify the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) based on the operations according to FIGS. 5A to 6B.

In one embodiment, the light-emitting circuit (e.g., the light-emitting circuit (701)) may be configured to emit light in an IR band. In one embodiment, the light-emitting circuit (e.g., the light-emitting circuit (701)) may be configured with a red LED and/or a green LED. The light-emitting circuit may be configured to emit red and/or green light. In one embodiment, one or more light-emitting circuits (e.g., the light-emitting circuit (701), the light-emitting circuit (702), and the light-emitting circuit (703)) included in the smart ring device (200) may be configured to emit at least one of light in an IR band, red light, and/or green light.

According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the first side (211) of the smart ring device (200) may be formed transparently. For example, the smart ring device (200) may include one or more light-emitting circuits (e.g., light-emitting circuit (701), light-emitting circuit (702), and light-emitting circuit (703)) and two or more light-receiving circuits (e.g., light-receiving circuit (711), light-receiving circuit (712), and light-receiving circuit (713)). The one or more light-emitting circuits (e.g., light-emitting circuit (701), light-emitting circuit (702), and light-receiving circuit (703)) may include a device configured to emit light of one or more wavelengths. For example, the one or more light-emitting circuits (e.g., light-emitting circuit (701), light-emitting circuit (702), and light-emitting circuit (703)) may include a light-emitting circuit for emitting a wavelength related to red and a light-receiving circuit for emitting an IR wavelength, respectively. The wavelength for red can be comprised of a spectrum from 600 [nm] (nano-meter) to 650 [nm]. The IR wavelength can be comprised of a spectrum from 850 [nm] to 900 [nm].

For example, the processor (210) may output light of each wavelength based on time division. For example, the processor (210) may emit light of a red wavelength through the light-emitting circuit (701). When light of a red wavelength is emitted from the light-emitting circuit (701), the light-receiving circuit (713) may identify light reflected on the finger (700) through the path (762). For example, the light-receiving circuit (712) may identify light transmitted through the finger (700) through the path (763). For example, the processor (210) may emit light of an IR band through the light-emitting circuit (701) based on time division. The processor (210) can emit light of a first size IR band toward a light receiving circuit (712) through a light emitting circuit (701) at a first time point, and can emit light of a second size IR band toward a light receiving circuit (712) through a light emitting circuit (701) at a second time point.

The processor (210) can identify light of an IR band emitted at a first size using a light receiving circuit (712) at a first time point. The light of an IR band emitted at a first size can be identified by the light receiving circuit (712) after transmitting through the user's finger (700). The processor (210) can identify light of an IR band emitted at a second size using a light receiving circuit (713) at a second time point. The light of an IR band emitted at a second size can be identified by the light receiving circuit (713) after reflecting from the user's finger (700).

According to one embodiment, the smart ring device (200) may include a blocking member (751) and a blocking member (752). Since at least a portion of the housing (201) of the smart ring device (200) (e.g., the inner housing portion (203)) is formed transparent, light emitted from one or more light-emitting circuits (233-1) may be transmitted and/or reflected inside the smart ring device (200) and identified by one or more light-receiving circuits (233-2). In order to prevent light emitted from one or more light-emitting circuits (233-1) from being transmitted and/or reflected inside the smart ring device (200) and identified by one or more light-receiving circuits (233-2), a blocking member (751) and a blocking member (752) may be placed inside the smart ring device (200). To prevent light emitted from one or more light-emitting circuits (233-1) from being directly emitted to one or more light-receiving circuits (233-2), a blocking member (751) and a blocking member (752) may be placed inside the smart ring device (200).

For example, the blocking member (751) may be placed between the light emitting circuit (701) and the light receiving circuit (713). The blocking member (751) may be placed between the light emitting circuit (702) and the light receiving circuit (711). The blocking member (752) may be placed between the light emitting circuit (702) and the light receiving circuit (712). The blocking member (752) may be placed between the light emitting circuit (703) and the light receiving circuit (713).

According to an embodiment, the sizes of the blocking member (751) and the blocking member (752) may be formed differently from each other. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. According to an embodiment, the materials constituting the blocking member (751) and the blocking member (752) may be different from each other. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. According to an embodiment, the distance between the blocking member (751) and the light receiving circuit (713) may be different from the distance between the blocking member (752) and the light receiving circuit (712). However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the distance between the blocking member (751) and the light receiving circuit (713) may be shorter than the distance between the blocking member (752) and the light receiving circuit (712).

According to one embodiment, the smart ring device (200) may be configured with various sizes depending on the size of the user's finger. The diameter of the smart ring device (200) may be configured with various lengths. The sizes of the components inside the smart ring device (200) do not change, but the distance between the components may change based on the size of the smart ring device (200). For example, the diameter of the smart ring device (200) may be set to one of 2 [cm] (centimeter) and 2.5 [cm]. The distance between the light emitting circuit and the light receiving circuit included in the smart ring device having a diameter of 2 [cm] may be shorter than the distance between the light emitting circuit and the light receiving circuit included in the smart ring device having a diameter of 2.5 [cm].

FIG. 8 illustrates a flow chart of the operation of a smart ring device according to one embodiment. In the following embodiments, the operations may be performed sequentially, but are not necessarily performed sequentially. For example, the order of the operations may be changed, and at least two operations may be performed in parallel.

Referring to FIG. 8, in operation 810, the processor (210) of the smart ring device (200) may identify the movement of the smart ring device (200). For example, the processor (210) may identify the movement of the smart ring device (200) using at least one of the acceleration sensor (231) and/or the gyro sensor (232). As an example, the processor (210) may identify that the movement of the smart ring device (200) has occurred based on identifying that a value representing the acceleration of the smart ring device (200) identified through the acceleration sensor (231) exceeds a first threshold value. As an example, the processor (210) may identify that the movement of the smart ring device (200) has occurred based on identifying that a value representing the angular velocity of the smart ring device (200) identified through the gyro sensor (232) exceeds a second threshold value.

In operation 820, the processor (210) can identify whether the smart ring device (200) is worn by the user. For example, the processor (210) can identify whether the smart ring device (200) is worn by the user by using at least one of the one or more light-emitting circuits (2331) and/or the one or more light-receiving circuits (233-2). For example, the processor (210) can identify whether the smart ring device (200) is worn by the user based on a plurality of signals identified through a plurality of light-receiving units included in a light-receiving circuit (e.g., the light-receiving circuit (400) of FIG. 4).

According to one embodiment, when the smart ring device (200) is worn by the user, the processor (210) may perform operation 810 again. According to one embodiment, when the smart ring device (200) is worn by the user, the smart ring device (200) may operate in an operation mode for identifying information about the user.

In operation 830, if the smart ring device (200) is not worn by the user, the processor (210) may set the operation mode of the smart ring device (200) to an operation mode for identifying a wearing direction. For example, the processor (210) may set the operation mode of the smart ring device (200) to an operation mode for identifying a wearing direction based on identifying that the smart ring device (200) is not worn by the user. For example, within the operation mode for identifying a wearing direction, the processor (210) may use one or more light-emitting circuits (233-1) to emit light in the IR band. The processor (210) may use one or more light-receiving circuits (233-2) to identify light in the IR band (or a portion of light in the IR band).

In operation 840, the processor (210) may identify (or determine) the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200). For example, the processor (210) may identify (or determine) the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) based on signals identified using one or more light receiving circuits (233-2).

For example, the processor (210) may identify the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) as one of the first direction and the second direction. When the smart ring device (200) is worn in the first direction, the direction in which the first side (213) of the smart ring device (200) faces may correspond to the direction in which the finger on which the smart ring device (200) is worn faces. When the smart ring device (200) is worn in the second direction, the direction in which the second side (214) of the smart ring device (200) faces may correspond to the direction in which the finger on which the smart ring device (200) is worn faces. Specific operations for identifying the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) may refer to FIGS. 1 to 7.

At operation 850, the processor (210) may set the operation mode of the smart ring device (200) to an operation mode for identifying information about the user. For example, the processor (210) may change the operation mode of the smart ring device (200) after the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) is identified. Based on identifying the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200), the processor (210) may change the operation mode of the smart ring device (200) from the operation mode for identifying the wearing direction to the operation mode for identifying information about the user. Based on identifying the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200), the processor (210) may set the operation mode of the smart ring device (200) to the operation mode for identifying information about the user.

For example, within an operating mode for identifying information about a user, the processor (210) may use the PPG sensor (233) to identify health information of the user (e.g., HRM (heart rate measurement) information).

According to one embodiment, the processor (210) may be distinguished from an operation mode for identifying a wearing direction (hereinafter, a first operation mode) and an operation mode for identifying information about a user (hereinafter, a second operation mode). For example, in the first operation mode, the processor (210) may perform a first light emission (or first light emission) through at least one of the one or more light-emitting circuits (233-1). In the second operation mode, the processor (210) may perform a second light emission through at least one of the one or more light-emitting circuits (233-1). The second light emission may differ from the first light emission in at least one of a light size, a light emission time, or a light emission cycle. For example, the processor (210) may set the light intensity according to the first light emission to be weaker than the light intensity according to the second light emission. By setting the light intensity according to the first light emission to be weaker than the light intensity according to the second light emission, the processor (210) may use power efficiently.

FIG. 9 illustrates the intensity of light emitted based on the operating mode of the smart ring device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 9, the processor (210) may set at least one of the intensity of light, the wavelength of light, the light emission time (or the light emission duration), or the light emission period emitted through at least one of the light emitting circuits (233-1). For example, the processor (210) may set at least one of the intensity of light, the wavelength of light, the light emission time, or the light emission period emitted through at least one of the light emitting circuits (233-1) based on the operation mode of the smart ring device (200).

According to one embodiment, the processor (210) may identify light transmitted or reflected by the user's finger by using one or more light-receiving circuits (233-2) in an operation mode for identifying information about the user (hereinafter, a second operation mode). Accordingly, the processor (210) may set at least one of the intensity of light, the wavelength of light, the light emission time, or the light emission cycle based on the light transmittance and/or reflectance of the user's finger.

On the other hand, the processor (210) may first operate in an operation mode (hereinafter, a first operation mode) for identifying a wearing direction, in a state where the smart ring device (200) is not worn. Accordingly, the processor (210) may adjust at least one of the light intensity, the light wavelength, the light emission time, or the light emission cycle set in the second operation mode, in the first operation mode. The graph (910) represents the light intensity emitted over time in the first operation mode. The graph (920) represents the light intensity emitted over time in the second operation mode.

For example, the processor (210) may set the intensity of light emitted in the first operation mode to be smaller than the intensity of light emitted in the second operation mode because the transmittance of air is higher than the transmittance of the user's finger. Referring to graph (910) and graph (920), the intensity of light emitted in the first operation mode may be a1. The intensity of light emitted in the second operation mode may be a2. a1 may be set to be smaller than a2.

For example, the processor (210) may set the light emission time in the first operation mode to be shorter than the light emission time in the second operation mode. Referring to graph (910) and graph (920), the light emission time in the first operation mode may be t1. The light emission time in the second operation mode may be t2. t1 may be set shorter than t2.

For example, the processor (210) may set the light emission period in the first operation mode to be shorter than the light emission period in the second operation mode. Referring to graphs (910) and (920), the light emission period in the first operation mode may be set to T1 (e.g., 1/60 second). The light emission period in the second operation mode may be set to T2 (e.g., 1/30 second). T1 may be set shorter than T2.

According to one embodiment, the processor (210) may improve the accuracy of identification of the wearing direction by setting the light emission cycle short in the first operation mode. According to one embodiment, the processor (210) may set the intensity of light emitted in the first operation mode to be greater than the intensity of light emitted in the second operation mode, and may set the light emission time in the first operation mode to be shorter than the light emission time in the second operation mode.

According to an embodiment, the processor (210) may change the number of activated light-emitting circuits and/or the number of light-receiving circuits based on the operation mode of the smart ring device (200). For example, the processor (210) may set the number of light-receiving circuits activated in the first operation mode differently from the number of light-receiving circuits activated in the second operation mode. For example, the processor (210) may identify information about the user by using all of one or more light-receiving circuits (233-2) in the second operation mode. The processor (210) may identify the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) by using one of the one or more light-receiving circuits (233-2) in the first operation mode.

FIG. 10 illustrates the intensity of light emitted based on the surrounding environment of a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 10, the processor (210) may control the operation of one or more light-emitting circuits (233-1) and/or one or more light-receiving circuits (233-2) depending on the surrounding environment (or the surrounding light source environment). The graph (1010) represents the intensity of light emitted over time from at least one of the one or more light-emitting circuits (233-1) while the smart ring device (200) (or the user) is located in an indoor environment. The graph (1020) represents the intensity of light emitted over time from one or more light-emitting circuits (233-1) (or at least one of the one or more light-emitting circuits (233-1)) while the smart ring device (200) (or the user) is located in an outdoor environment.

For example, the processor (210) may set the light intensity in an indoor environment to be smaller than the light intensity in an outdoor environment. Referring to graph (1010) and graph (1020), the light intensity in an indoor environment may be a1. The light intensity in an outdoor environment may be a2. a1 may be set to be smaller than a2.

For example, the processor (210) may set the light emission time in an indoor environment to be longer than the light emission time in an outdoor environment. Referring to graph (1010) and graph (1020), the light emission time in an indoor environment may be t1. The light emission time in an outdoor environment may be t2. t1 may be set to be longer than t2.

For example, the processor (210) may set the light emission period in an indoor environment to be longer than the light emission period in an outdoor environment. Referring to graph (1010) and graph (1020), the light emission period in an indoor environment may be T1 (e.g., 1/30 second). The light emission period in an outdoor environment may be T2 (e.g., 1/60 second). T1 may be set longer than T2.

For example, when the smart ring device (200) (or the user) is located in an indoor environment, the illuminance of the indoor environment may be lower than the illuminance of the outdoor environment. Therefore, the smart ring device (200) may be less affected by the ambient light in the indoor environment. For example, when the user wears the smart ring device (200) in an environment with strong infrared rays, such as at sunset, one or more light receiving circuits may identify external infrared rays. Therefore, noise may be generated by the external infrared rays. Therefore, the processor (310) may set the light intensity in the outdoor environment to be greater than the light intensity in the indoor environment.

According to one embodiment, in an operation mode for identifying a wearing direction (hereinafter, a first operation mode), the processor (210) may not first emit light using one or more light-emitting circuits (233-1). Before emitting light using one or more light-emitting circuits (233-1), the processor (210) may identify an infrared component of ambient light. Based on identifying that the magnitude of the infrared component of the ambient light exceeds a threshold value, the processor (210) may increase the intensity of infrared (or light) emitted through one or more light-emitting circuits (233-1). According to an embodiment, since power consumption increases when the intensity of the emitted infrared (or light) is increased, the processor (210) may set the light-emitting time to be shorter than the light-emitting time when the magnitude of the infrared component of the ambient light does not exceed the threshold value.

According to an embodiment, the processor (210) may set the light emission period to be shorter than the light emission period when the size of the infrared component of the ambient light does not exceed the threshold value based on identifying that the size of the infrared component of the ambient light exceeds the threshold value. By setting the light emission period to be shorter than the light emission period when the size of the infrared component of the ambient light does not exceed the threshold value, the processor (210) may improve the accuracy of identifying the wearing direction.

According to one embodiment, the processor (210) can change the sensitivity of one or more light-receiving circuits (233-2) based on the surrounding environment. For example, when the illuminance of the surrounding environment is high, the processor (210) can lower the sensitivity of one or more light-receiving circuits (233-2). When the illuminance of the surrounding environment is low, the processor (210) can increase the sensitivity of one or more light-receiving circuits (233-2).

According to one embodiment, the processor (210) may change the threshold value for identifying the wearing direction based on the surrounding environment. For example, when the size of the infrared component of the surrounding light is large, the processor (210) may increase the threshold value for identifying the wearing detection (or the wearing direction) by using the signals of one or more light-receiving circuits (233-2). For example, the processor (210) may detect the wearing of the smart ring device (200) based on identifying that the intensity of light identified through one or more light-receiving circuits (233-2) is equal to or greater than the threshold value. Since the infrared component of the surrounding light is also identified through one or more light-receiving circuits (233-2), the processor (210) may set the threshold value high.

According to one embodiment, the processor (210) may set at least one of the intensity of light emitted through at least one of the light emitting circuits (233-1), the wavelength of light, the light emission time (or the light emission duration), or the light emission cycle, based on the characteristics of the user's finger. For example, if the skin color of the user's finger is dark, the amount of light reflected may be less than the amount of light reflected if the skin color of the user's finger is light. Accordingly, the processor (210) may obtain information about the user's skin color using the smart ring device (200) or the external electronic device (300) connected to the smart ring device (200). If the skin color of the user's finger is darker than the average skin color of users, the processor (210) may increase the intensity of light emitted through at least one of the light emitting circuits (233-1).

FIG. 11 illustrates an example of operation of a smart ring device to identify a wearing direction of the smart ring device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 11, the processor (210) can identify the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) based on the distance from a part of the finger identified by each of the plurality of receiving units (e.g., the first light receiving unit (401) and the second light receiving unit (402)). The thickness of the user's finger may increase from the nail to the back of the hand. Accordingly, when the smart ring device (200) is worn, the intensities of light identified by the first light receiving unit (401) and the second light receiving unit (402) may be different from each other.

For example, the second side (214) may be brought closer to the finger before the first side (213). The first light-receiving unit (401) positioned closer to the first side (213) may identify light reflected on the first part (1110) of the finger. The second light-receiving unit (402) positioned closer to the second side (214) may identify light reflected on the second part (1120) of the finger. The thickness of the first part (1110) of the finger may be w1. The thickness of the second part (1120) of the finger may be w2. The distance (d1) from the first light-receiving unit (401) to the first part (1110) of the finger may be longer than the distance (d2) from the second light-receiving unit (402) to the second part (1120) of the finger. Accordingly, at a given point in time (e.g., a point in time within a time period during which the smart ring device (200) is worn), the intensity of light reflected from the first part (1110) of the finger and identified by the first light-receiving unit (401) may be less than the intensity of light reflected from the second part (1120) of the finger and identified by the second light-receiving unit (402). The processor (210) may identify that the smart ring device (200) is worn in the first direction based on identifying that the intensity of light identified by the first light-receiving unit (401) is less than the intensity of light identified by the second light-receiving unit (402). Similar to the example described above, the processor (210) may identify that the smart ring device (200) is worn in the second direction based on identifying that, at a given point in time, the intensity of light identified by the first light-receiving unit (401) is greater than or equal to the intensity of light identified by the second light-receiving unit (402).

FIG. 12 illustrates a flow chart of the operation of a smart ring device according to one embodiment. In the following embodiments, the operations may be performed sequentially, but are not necessarily performed sequentially. For example, the order of the operations may be changed, and at least two operations may be performed in parallel.

In operation 1210, the processor (210) may identify the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200). For example, operation 1210 may correspond to operation 840 of FIG. 8.

In operation 1220, the processor (210) can identify whether information about the hand wearing the smart ring device (200) is stored in the memory (240). For example, the processor (210) can identify whether information about the hand wearing the smart ring device (200) is stored in the memory (240) based on identifying the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200).

For example, the processor (210) can identify whether information about the hand that primarily wears the smart ring device (200) is stored in the memory (240). If information about the hand that primarily wears the smart ring device (200) is stored in the memory (240), the processor (210) can identify information about the hand that wears the smart ring device (200).

In operation 1230, if information about the hand wearing the smart ring device (200) is not stored in the memory (240), the processor (210) can obtain information about the hand wearing the smart ring device (200). The processor (210) can obtain information about the hand wearing the smart ring device (200) based on identifying that information about the hand wearing the smart ring device (200) is not stored in the memory (240).

According to one embodiment, the processor (210) can identify an input for obtaining information about a hand wearing the smart ring device (200). For example, the processor (210) can request information about a hand wearing the smart ring device (200). The processor (210) can identify an input for obtaining information about a hand wearing the smart ring device (200) by using the smart ring device (200) or an external electronic device (300) connected to the smart ring device (200).

According to one embodiment, when a wearable device, which is distinct from a smart ring device (200), is worn on a hand (e.g., a wrist), the processor (210) may compare a value for acceleration identified in the wearable device with a value for acceleration identified in the smart ring device (200). Based on the comparison, the processor (210) may identify a hand wearing the smart ring device (200). For example, the processor (210) may receive information about a hand on which a wearable device is worn from the wearable device or an external electronic device (e.g., a smart phone) that is in communication with the wearable device. The information about the hand on which the wearable device is worn may be stored in the memory (240) of the smart ring device (200). For example, if the wearable device is worn on the right hand, the processor (210) can identify that the smart ring device (200) is worn on the right hand based on identifying that the value for acceleration identified in the wearable device corresponds to the value for acceleration identified in the smart ring device (200). For example, if the wearable device is worn on the right hand, the processor (210) can identify that the smart ring device (200) is worn on the left hand based on identifying that the value for acceleration identified in the wearable device is distinct from the value for acceleration identified in the smart ring device (200).

According to one embodiment, the processor (210) may compare a waveform for a heart rate identified in the wearable device with a waveform for a heart rate identified in the smart ring device (200) when the wearable device, which is distinct from the smart ring device (200), is worn on the hand (e.g., wrist). Based on the comparison, the processor (210) may identify the hand wearing the smart ring device (200).

According to one embodiment, the processor (210) may store information about the hand wearing the smart ring device (200) in the memory (240) based on obtaining information about the hand wearing the smart ring device (200).

In operation 1240, the processor (210) may transmit information about a hand wearing the smart ring device (200) to an external electronic device (300). The processor (210) may transmit information about a hand wearing the smart ring device (200) and information about a rotational input of the smart ring device (200) to the external electronic device (300). For example, the external electronic device (300) may perform a function according to the rotational input based on the information about the hand wearing the smart ring device (200) and the information about the rotational input of the smart ring device (200). For example, when the smart ring device (200) is worn on the left hand, the smart ring device (200) may perform a first function based on the information about the rotational input of the smart ring device (200). For example, when the smart ring device (200) is worn on the right hand, the smart ring device (200) may perform a second function that is distinct from the first function based on the information about the rotational input of the smart ring device (200).

According to an embodiment, the processor (210) may generate a control signal that causes the external electronic device (300) to perform a function based on information about the hand wearing the smart ring device (200) and information about the rotation input of the smart ring device (200). The processor (210) may transmit the generated control signal to the external electronic device (300).

FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a screen indicating the wearing direction of a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 13, the smart ring device (200) may be connected to an external electronic device (1300) including a display. The processor (210) of the smart ring device (200) may identify that the smart ring device (200) is worn by a user. The processor (210) may identify the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200).

The processor (210) can transmit information about the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) to the external electronic device (1300). The external electronic device (1300) can receive information about the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) from the smart ring device (200). Based on the information about the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200), the external electronic device (1300) can display a screen (1310) indicating the wearing of the smart ring device (200) through the display of the external electronic device (1300).

The screen (1310) may include a visual object (1312) indicating the wearing (or wearing direction) of the smart ring device (200). Although not illustrated, the screen (1310) may further include text for indicating the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) or the wearing (or wearing direction) of the smart ring device (200). The external electronic device (1300) may display a status bar indicating the overall status of the external electronic device (1300) through the display. The external electronic device (1300) may display a visual object (1311) indicating that the smart ring device (200) is worn within the status bar.

After the screen (1310) is displayed, the external electronic device (1300) can identify wearable devices worn on the user's body. The external electronic device (1300) can display a screen (1320) for indicating wearable devices worn on the user's body. For example, if the user is wearing a watch-shaped wearable device and a smart ring device (200) on one hand, the screen (1320) can include a visual object (1321) for indicating the hand (or wrist) wearing the watch-shaped wearable device and the smart ring device (200). The visual object (1321) can include a visual object (1322) for indicating the watch-shaped wearable device and a visual object (1323) for indicating the smart ring device (200). Although not illustrated, the screen (1320) can further include text for indicating a list of wearable devices worn by the user.

FIG. 14A illustrates an example of a circuit including a plurality of antennas for changing the direction of a radiated signal, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 14b illustrates an example of a signal radiated from a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 14A and 14B, the smart ring device (200) may include a communication circuit (220), a radio frequency front end (RFFE) (1410), a first antenna (1421), and a second antenna (1422). The communication circuit (220) may be connected to the RFFE (1410). The communication circuit (220) may control the RFFE (1410) to radiate a signal using at least one of the first antenna (1421) and/or the second antenna (1422).

For example, the first antenna (1421) may be formed (or arranged) to radiate a signal in a direction (1451) toward the first side (213). The second antenna (1422) may be formed (or arranged) to radiate a signal in a direction (1452) toward the second side (214). For example, the housing (201) of the smart ring device (200) may be formed of metal. Accordingly, the first antenna (1421) and the second antenna (1422) may be configured using at least a portion (e.g., a segmented portion) of the housing (201) of the smart ring device (200).

According to one embodiment, the communication circuit (220) may include a near field communication (NFC) IC. The communication circuit (220) may radiate an NFC signal through at least one of the first antenna (1421) and/or the second antenna (1422).

The processor (210) can identify the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200). The processor (210) can identify the side facing the tip (or nail) of the finger while the smart ring device (200) is worn as one of the first side (213) and the second side (214). As shown in FIG. 14b, the processor (210) can radiate an NFC signal through the first antenna (1421) based on identifying that the first side (213) faces the tip (or nail) of the finger. The NFC signal radiated through the first antenna (1421) can be radiated in the direction (1451). For example, the NFC signal can be used for payment. The user of the smart ring device (200) can perform payment for a product by lifting the finger on which the smart ring device (200) is worn and transmitting an NFC signal to an external electronic device for payment. The processor (210) can emit an NFC signal based on identifying that the user's finger is pointing toward an external electronic device for payment.

For example, the processor (210) may emit an NFC signal through the first antenna (1421) based on identifying that the user's finger is pointed toward an external electronic device for payment while the smart ring device (200) is worn in a first direction. For example, the processor (210) may emit an NFC signal through the second antenna (1422) based on identifying that the user's finger is pointed toward an external electronic device for payment while the smart ring device (200) is worn in a second direction.

Although not illustrated, the smart ring device (200) may include a plurality of antennas including a first antenna (1421) and a second antenna (1422). Each of the plurality of antennas may be used for a different radio access technology (RAT) (e.g., NFC, Bluetooth communication, cellular communication, or wireless LAN communication). The plurality of antennas may be selectively used based on the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200). For example, when the first antenna (1421) faces the fingertip and the second antenna (1422) faces the wrist, the processor (210) may use the first antenna (1421) for NCF communication and/or cellular communication, and use the second antenna (1422) for Bluetooth communication and/or wireless LAN communication for connection with a wearable device in the form of a watch worn on the wrist or an external electronic device (e.g., a smart phone).

FIG. 15 illustrates an example of a smart ring device being connected to an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 15, the smart ring device (200) may be connected to an external electronic device (300). For example, the smart ring device (200) may be connected to the external electronic device (300) using a short-range wireless communication technique. For example, the smart ring device (200) may be connected to the external electronic device (300) through a physical structure. Although not shown, the external electronic device (300) may include a physical structure for connecting the smart ring device (200). Although FIG. 15 shows that the external electronic device (300) has a shape of a smartphone, it is not limited thereto. The external electronic device (300) may include devices configured in various shapes. For example, the external electronic device (300) may include a wearable device for providing augmented reality (AR) and/or virtual reality (VR), a smart watch, or wireless earphones.

Based on at least one of the above-described connection methods, the smart ring device (200) can establish a connection with the external electronic device (300). While the smart ring device (200) and the external electronic device (300) are connected, the smart ring device (200) (or the processor (210) of the smart ring device (200)) can transmit information about the rotational input to the external electronic device (300) through the communication circuit (220). The external electronic device (300) (or the processor (310) of the external electronic device (300)) can perform an operation mapped to the rotational input based on the information about the rotational input. For example, the external electronic device (300) can control a screen displayed through the display of the external electronic device (300) based on the rotational input.

According to one embodiment, when the smart ring device (200) transmits information about a rotation input to an external electronic device (300), it may also transmit information about a wearing direction of the smart ring device (200). According to one embodiment, the smart ring device (200) may generate a control signal according to the rotation input based on the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200). The smart ring device (200) may transmit the control signal to the external electronic device (300).

According to one embodiment, the smart ring device (200) may set a function of the external electronic device (300) mapped to the rotation input of the smart ring device (200) based on establishing a connection with the external electronic device (300). For example, the smart ring device (200) may identify capability information of the external electronic device (300) when establishing a connection with the external electronic device (300). The smart ring device (200) may obtain information about at least one of the shape (or shape) of the external electronic device (300), the application requiring control, the screen size, or the type of service. The smart ring device (200) may set a function of the external electronic device (300) mapped to the rotation input based on information about at least one of the shape (or shape) of the external electronic device (300), the application requiring control, the screen size, or the type of service. The above-described operation can be performed by the processor (310) of the external electronic device (300) or the processor of another external electronic device connected to the smart ring device (200) and the external electronic device (300). For example, when the external electronic device (300) has a watch shape, another external electronic device (e.g., a smartphone) can perform the role of a primary device (or master processor). The other external electronic device can identify the capability information of the external electronic device (300) and set the function of the external electronic device (300) mapped to the rotation input. Hereinafter, an example in which the operations of the smart ring device (200) and the external electronic device (300) are controlled through another external electronic device will be described.

According to one embodiment, another external electronic device may control the smart ring device (200) and the external electronic device (300). The processor of the other external electronic device may be referred to as the first processor. The processor (310) of the external electronic device (300) may be referred to as the second processor. For example, the second processor may perform a command according to the judgment and control operation of the first processor. According to an embodiment, the first processor and the second processor may be logically separated while being physically included in the same device.

For example, the smart ring device (200) can establish a connection with an external electronic device (300). The smart ring device (200) can transmit information acquired through the sensor (230) of the smart ring device (200) to the external electronic device (300). When the smart ring device (200) transmits information acquired through the sensor (230) of the smart ring device (200) to the external electronic device (300) (or a second processor) and the external electronic device (300) processes the received information, the battery consumption of the smart ring device (200) can be reduced. According to an embodiment, the smart ring device (200) can process information acquired through the sensor (230) and transmit the processed information to the external electronic device (300).

As described above, when the smart ring device (200) is connected to an external electronic device (300) (or a second processor), information acquired through the sensor (230) of the smart ring device (200) can be transmitted to the external electronic device (300). When the external electronic device (300) is connected to another external electronic device, it can notify the other external electronic device that it is receiving information acquired through the sensor (230) of the smart ring device (200).

Another external electronic device (or the first processor) can identify capability information of the external electronic device (300) (or the second processor) (e.g., information about at least one of the shape (or appearance) of the external electronic device (300), the application requiring control, the screen size, or the type of service) and function information of the external electronic device (300). The smart ring device (200) can determine an input value resolution according to the rotation input of the smart ring device (200) based on the capability information of the external electronic device (300) and the function information of the external electronic device (300). For example, the input value resolution can mean a ratio of an input value that changes in response to a change in a sensor value of the smart ring device (200) in the external electronic device (300).

For example, the external electronic device (300) can control the scrolling of the screen displayed through the display (330) of the external electronic device (300) based on the sensor value for the rotation input of the smart ring device (200). For example, the external electronic device (300) can receive a sensor value indicating that the structure (215) of the smart ring device (200) rotates 180 degrees. The external electronic device (300) can set the screen to be scrolled according to a ratio corresponding to one page based on the sensor value. When the external electronic device (300) receives a sensor value indicating that the structure (215) of the smart ring device (200) rotates 90 degrees, the external electronic device (300) can scroll the screen according to a ratio corresponding to half a page based on the sensor value.

For example, if there are 100 icons in the application list, the external electronic device (300) can be set to switch the display to the next icon every time the structure (215) of the smart ring device (200) rotates 5 degrees. The external electronic device (300) can provide a user interface in which the display of 10 icons switches when the structure (215) of the smart ring device (200) rotates 50 degrees.

For example, the external electronic device (300) may provide a video editor function. The external electronic device (300) may scroll video frames based on the rotation input of the smart ring device (200). The external electronic device (300) may be set to display a main frame (e.g., an I frame or a frame including a main object of interest) based on the rotation input of the smart ring device (200). Since switching all frames of the video based on the rotation angle of the structure (215) may cause inconvenience to the user, the main frames may be switched based on the rotation angle range of the structure (215) of the smart ring device (200). As an example, the external electronic device (300) may be set to display the first I frame when the rotation angle range of the structure (215) of the smart ring device (200) is 0 to 5 degrees. Accordingly, the I frames may be switched based on the specified rotation angle range.

For example, the external electronic device (300) can control the scrolling of the screen displayed through the display (330) of the external electronic device (300) based on the rotation speed of the structure (215) of the smart ring device (200). As an example, the scrolling speed of the screen can be set based on the rotation speed of the structure (215) of the smart ring device (200). For example, the external electronic device (300) can set the speed at which the display of icons is switched based on the rotation speed of the structure (215) of the smart ring device (200).

In some embodiments, the other external electronic device (or the first processor) may determine the input value resolution of the external electronic device (300) (or the second processor). For example, the other external electronic device (or the first processor) may determine the input value resolution of the external electronic device (300) (or the second processor) based on at least one of a possible input value range, a number of scroll target items (e.g., icons), or a range input value.

FIG. 16 illustrates a flow chart of the operation of a smart ring device according to one embodiment. In the following embodiments, the operations may be performed sequentially, but are not necessarily performed sequentially. For example, the order of the operations may be changed, and at least two operations may be performed in parallel.

Referring to FIG. 16, in operation 1610, the processor (210) of the smart ring device (200) may set the operation mode of the smart ring device (200) to an operation mode for identifying the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200).

At operation 1620, the processor (210) can identify whether the smart ring device (200) is worn. For example, the processor (210) can identify whether the smart ring device (200) is worn within an operation mode for identifying a wearing direction of the smart ring device (200).

For example, the processor (210) can identify whether the smart ring device (200) is worn by using the PPG sensor (233) (or the light receiving circuit (400)). The processor (210) can identify the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) by using the PPG sensor (233) (or the light receiving circuit (400)).

According to one embodiment, when the smart ring device (200) is not worn, operation 1620 may be performed based on a specified time period.

In operation 1630, if the smart ring device (200) is worn, the processor (210) can identify whether an external electronic device (300) to be controlled through the smart ring device (200) exists. For example, the processor (210) can identify whether an external electronic device (300) to be controlled through the smart ring device (200) exists based on identifying that the smart ring device (200) is worn by the user.

In operation 1640, if there is an external electronic device (300) to be controlled through the smart ring device (200), the processor (210) can transmit a control signal to the external electronic device (300) based on the rotation input. The processor (210) can identify the rotation input. For example, the rotation input can be identified based on the rotation of the structure (215) of the smart ring device (200). For example, the rotation input can be identified based on a touch input maintained along a specified direction on the housing (201) of the smart ring device (200).

According to one embodiment, the processor (210) can identify a function of an external electronic device (300) mapped to a rotational input. The processor (210) can transmit a control signal to the external electronic device (300) to perform the function of the external electronic device (300) mapped to the rotational input. For example, the processor (210) can identify a function of the external electronic device (300) mapped to the rotational input based on a wearing direction of the smart ring device (200). The processor (210) can transmit a control signal to the external electronic device (300) to control the external electronic device (300) to perform the identified function.

According to an embodiment, the processor (210) may transmit information about the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) and information about the rotation input to the external electronic device (300). The external electronic device (300) may identify a function of the external electronic device (300) corresponding to the rotation input based on the information about the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200). The external electronic device (300) may perform the identified function.

In operation 1650, if there is no external electronic device (300) to be controlled via the smart ring device (200), the processor (210) can perform a function assigned to the smart ring device (200) based on the rotation input.

According to one embodiment, the processor (210) can identify a function of the smart ring device (200) mapped to a rotation input. The processor (210) can perform the identified function based on the rotation input.

FIG. 17a illustrates an example of scroll input via a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 17b illustrates an example of scroll input via a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 17A and 17B, the smart ring device (200) may be connected to an external electronic device (300) including a display (330). Based on a rotation input of the smart ring device (200), a screen (e.g., screen (1710) or screen (1720)) displayed on the display (330) of the external electronic device (300) may be scrolled. For example, the rotation input may be identified based on a rotation of the structure (215) of the smart ring device (200). For example, the rotation input may be identified based on a touch input maintained along a specified direction on the housing (201) of the smart ring device (200).

Referring to FIG. 17a, the smart ring device (200) can be worn in the first direction. For example, when the smart ring device (200) is worn in the first direction, a rotation input can be identified. For example, the direction in which the first side (213) of the smart ring device (200) faces can be toward the nail of the finger on which the smart ring device (200) is worn.

For example, when the smart ring device (200) is worn in the first direction, a rotational input can be identified based on the direction (1701). The processor (210) can identify a function of an external electronic device (300) according to the identified rotational input based on the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200). The processor (210) can set the function of the external electronic device (300) according to the identified rotational input to a scroll down function of the screen (1710). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

For example, when the smart ring device (200) is worn in the first direction, a rotational input can be identified based on the direction (1702). The processor (210) can identify a function of an external electronic device (300) according to the identified rotational input based on the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200). The processor (210) can set the function of the external electronic device (300) according to the identified rotational input to a scroll-up function of the screen (1710). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

Referring to FIG. 17b, the smart ring device (200) can be worn in a second direction. For example, when the smart ring device (200) is worn in a second direction, a rotation input can be identified. The direction in which the second side (214) of the smart ring device (200) faces can be toward the nail of the finger on which the smart ring device (200) is worn.

For example, when the smart ring device (200) is worn in the second direction, a rotational input can be identified based on the direction (1701). The processor (210) can identify a function of an external electronic device (300) according to the identified rotational input based on the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200). The processor (210) can set the function of the external electronic device (300) according to the identified rotational input to a scroll down function of the screen (1720). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

For example, when the smart ring device (200) is worn in the second direction, a rotational input can be identified based on the direction (1702). The processor (210) can identify a function of an external electronic device (300) according to the identified rotational input based on the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200). The processor (210) can set the function of the external electronic device (300) according to the identified rotational input to a scroll-up function of the screen (1720). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

Referring to FIGS. 17A and 17B, even if the directions of the rotation input are opposite to each other depending on the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200), the processor (210) can transmit information about the changed rotation input based on the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) to the external electronic device (300). Accordingly, the external electronic device (300) can perform the same function in response to the rotation input according to the same gesture of the user regardless of the direction in which the smart ring device (200) is worn.

Although not illustrated, the processor (210) may determine (or identify) the posture using the acceleration sensor (231) of the smart ring device (200). The processor (210) may determine (or set) the scroll direction based on the posture of the smart ring device (200). For example, based on identifying that the posture of the smart ring device (200) is the first posture, up and down scrolling may be performed according to a rotational input. For example, based on identifying that the posture of the smart ring device (200) is the second posture, left and right scrolling may be performed according to a rotational input.

FIG. 18 illustrates an example of rotation input via a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 18, the smart ring device (200) can identify a rotational input. For example, the smart ring device (200) can identify a first rotational input based on one of the direction (1811) and the direction (1812). For example, the first rotational input can be identified based on a rotation of the structure (215) according to one of the direction (1811) and the direction (1812). For example, the first rotational input can be identified based on a touch input that is maintained according to one of the direction (1811) and the direction (1812). For example, the direction (1811) can be referenced as clockwise. The direction (1812) can be referenced as counterclockwise.

The smart ring device (200) may be connected to an external electronic device (300). The external electronic device (300) may be configured in a watch shape. The external electronic device (300) may include a wheel key that can rotate along a circular display (330). The wheel key may rotate in one of the directions (1801) and (1802). A second rotation input may be identified based on the rotation of the wheel key in one of the directions (1801) and (1802). For example, the direction (1801) may be referred to as a clockwise direction. The direction (1802) may be referred to as a counterclockwise direction.

For example, a first rotation input along a direction (1811) may correspond to a second rotation input along a direction (1801). A function of an external electronic device (300) performed based on the first rotation input along a direction (1811) may correspond to a function of an external electronic device (300) performed based on the second rotation input along a direction (1801). The function of an external electronic device (300) performed based on the first rotation input along a direction (1811) and/or the second rotation input along a direction (1801) may be set to one of scroll down or scroll right.

For example, a first rotational input along a direction (1812) may correspond to a second rotational input along a direction (1802). A function of the external electronic device (300) performed based on the first rotational input along a direction (1812) may correspond to a function of the external electronic device (300) performed based on the second rotational input along a direction (1802). The function of the external electronic device (300) performed based on the first rotational input along a direction (1812) and/or the second rotational input along a direction (1802) may be set to one of scroll up or scroll left.

According to one embodiment, while the screen (1861) is displayed through the display (330) of the external electronic device (300), the screen may be changed based on the first rotation input and/or the second rotation input. For example, when the screen is changed based on the first rotation input and/or the second rotation input, a visual effect indicating that the screen is changed along the horizontal direction may be displayed together.

Based on the first rotation input according to the direction (1811) and/or the second rotation input according to the direction (1801), the screen displayed through the display (330) of the external electronic device (300) along the direction (1821) may be changed. For example, based on the first rotation input according to the direction (1811) and/or the second rotation input according to the direction (1801), the screens displayed through the display (330) of the external electronic device (300) may be changed in the order of screen (1861), screen (1862), screen (1863), and screen (1864) along the direction (1821). After the screen (1864) is displayed, the screen (1861) may be displayed again based on the first rotation input according to the direction (1811) and/or the second rotation input according to the direction (1801).

Based on the first rotation input in the direction (1812) and/or the second rotation input in the direction (1802), the screen displayed through the display (330) of the external electronic device (300) along the direction (1822) may be changed. For example, based on the first rotation input in the direction (1812) and/or the second rotation input in the direction (1802), the screens displayed through the display (330) of the external electronic device (300) may be changed in the order of screen (1861), screen (1864), screen (1863), and screen (1862) along the direction (1822). After the screen (1862) is displayed, the screen (1861) may be displayed based on the first rotation input in the direction (1812) and/or the second rotation input in the direction (1802).

According to one embodiment, while the screen (1871) is displayed through the display (330) of the external electronic device (300), the screen may be changed based on the first rotation input and/or the second rotation input. For example, when the screen is changed based on the first rotation input and/or the second rotation input, a visual effect indicating that the screen is changed along the vertical direction may be displayed together.

Based on the first rotation input along the direction (1811) and/or the second rotation input along the direction (1801), the screen displayed through the display (330) of the external electronic device (300) along the direction (1821) may be changed. For example, based on the first rotation input along the direction (1811) and/or the second rotation input along the direction (1801), the screen displayed through the display (330) of the external electronic device (300) may be changed in the order of screen (1871), screen (1872), screen (1873), screen (1874), screen (1875), screen (1876), and screen (1877) along the direction (1831). After the screen (1877) is displayed, the screen (1871) may be displayed again based on the first rotation input according to the direction (1811) and/or the second rotation input according to the direction (1801).

Based on the first rotation input along the direction (1812) and/or the second rotation input along the direction (1802), the screen displayed through the display (330) of the external electronic device (300) along the direction (1822) may be changed. For example, based on the first rotation input along the direction (1812) and/or the second rotation input along the direction (1802), the screen displayed through the display (330) of the external electronic device (300) may be changed in the order of screen (1871), screen (1877), screen (1876), screen (1875), screen (1874), screen (1873), and screen (1872) along the direction (1832). After the screen (1872) is displayed, the screen (1871) may be displayed again based on the first rotation input according to the direction (1812) and/or the second rotation input according to the direction (1802).

Although not illustrated, the smart ring device (200) may perform operations similar to those described above even when not worn by a user. For example, even when the smart ring device (200) is placed on the floor or is supported by an external object, a function of an external electronic device (300) corresponding to a rotational input identified by the smart ring device (200) may be performed. According to an embodiment, the processor (210) may identify the direction of the rotational input based on the wearing direction (or orientation) of the smart ring device (200).

Although not shown, the screen displayed through the display (330) of the external electronic device (300) may further include visual objects indicating a connection with the smart ring device (200) and that the operation of the external electronic device (300) is being controlled by the smart ring device (200).

FIG. 19 illustrates an example of an operation for identifying a wearing direction of a smart ring device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 19, since the smart ring device (200) is not fixed in the direction of wearing, even when the user performs the same motion, the smart ring device (200) may determine different rotational inputs depending on the direction of wearing. For example, when the smart ring device (200) is worn on the user's finger, the rotational input may change depending on whether the hand on which the smart ring device (200) is worn is the left or right hand. For example, the rotational input may change depending on the direction of wearing the smart ring device (200).

According to one embodiment, the processor (210) of the smart ring device (200) may identify the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) by using the acceleration sensor (231) and/or the gyro sensor (232). For example, the processor (210) may identify the hand wearing the smart ring device (200) and/or the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) by using the acceleration sensor (231) and/or the gyro sensor (232). The processor (210) may identify the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) based on identifying the direction of gravity by using the acceleration sensor (231) and/or the gyro sensor (232). The processor (210) may set three axes (e.g., the x-axis, the y-axis, and the z-axis) based on the smart ring device (200). The processor (210) can set the direction in which the first side (213) faces as the z-axis. The processor (210) can set the direction in which the second side (214), which is opposite to the first side (213), faces as the -z-axis.

In one embodiment, the processor (210) may request to sequentially take posture (1901), posture (1902), and posture (1903).

The processor (210) may request the user to take a posture (1901). For example, the processor (210) may request the user to take an attention posture with the hand wearing the smart ring device (200). When the smart ring device (200) is worn in the first direction as shown in FIG. 5A, in the posture (1901), the z-axis direction, which is the direction in which the first side (213) of the smart ring device (200) faces, may correspond to the direction of gravity. The processor (210) may identify the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) based on identifying that the z-axis direction, which is the direction in which the first side (213) faces, corresponds to the direction of gravity.

The processor (210) may identify the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200) and then request the user to take a posture (1902). For example, the processor (210) may request the user to put down the hand wearing the smart ring device (200) so that it faces the desk. In the posture (1902), the -y-axis direction identified in the smart ring device (200) may correspond to the gravity direction. Based on the processor (210) identifying that the -y-axis direction corresponds to the gravity direction, the processor (210) may identify an angle at which the y-axis is rotated with respect to the gravity direction. Based on the identified angle, the processor (210) may identify the wearing state of the smart ring device (200).

After the processor (210) identifies the wearing state of the smart ring device (200), the processor (210) may request the user to take a posture (1903). For example, the processor (210) may request the user to turn the palm upward. In the posture (1903), the y-axis direction identified in the smart ring device (200) may correspond to the direction of gravity. The processor (210) may identify the direction in which the z-axis is rotated (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise) while the user's posture changes from the posture (1902) to the posture (1903). The processor (210) may identify a yaw value based on the direction in which the z-axis is rotated. Based on the yaw value, the processor (210) may identify the hand on which the smart ring device (200) is worn as either the left or right hand. For example, while the user's posture changes from posture (1902) to posture (1903), the processor (210) can identify the hand on which the smart ring device (200) is worn as the left hand based on identifying that the z-axis rotates counterclockwise. For example, while the user's posture changes from posture (1902) to posture (1903), the processor (210) can identify the hand on which the smart ring device (200) is worn as the right hand based on identifying that the z-axis rotates clockwise.

Based on the above-described operations, the processor (210) can identify the hand wearing the smart ring device (200) and/or the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200). The processor (210) can identify the direction of the rotation input based on the hand wearing the smart ring device (200) and/or the wearing direction of the smart ring device (200).

Although not shown, when the smart ring device (200) is placed on the ground, the processor (210) can identify whether the direction of the z-axis corresponds to the direction of gravity by using the acceleration sensor (231) and/or the gyro sensor (232). Based on identifying that the direction of the z-axis corresponds to the direction of gravity, the processor (210) can identify that the first side (213) faces the ground. The processor (210) can identify whether the direction of the z-axis is opposite to the direction of gravity by using the acceleration sensor (231) and/or the gyro sensor (232). Based on identifying that the direction of the z-axis is opposite to the direction of gravity, the processor (210) can identify that the second side (214) faces the ground.

For example, the processor (210) can identify (or estimate) the direction of a rotational input based on information about the phase difference between the structure (215) and the housing (201), a swipe input to the ring, information about the z-axis rotation (e.g., a yaw value), or information about the phase difference of a signal pattern identified from the PPG sensor (233).

According to the above-described embodiment, the processor (210) can identify the direction of the rotational input and perform a function mapped to the direction of the identified rotational input. According to the embodiment, the processor (210) can transmit raw data to the external electronic device (300). The external electronic device (300) can control a screen displayed on the display (330) based on the raw data. According to the embodiment, the processor (210) can transmit information (e.g., a rotational direction or a rotational speed) about the identified rotational input based on the raw data to the external electronic device (300). The external electronic device (300) can control a screen displayed on the display (330) based on the information about the rotational input.

According to an embodiment, the processor (210) may request the user to perform a rotation input in a specified direction. Based on the rotation input received from the user, the processor (210) may store the direction of the rotation input in the memory (240).

FIG. 20 illustrates an example of a smart ring device being connected to an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 20, the external electronic device (300) can provide AR service and/or VR service. For example, the external electronic device (300) can be referred to as an HMD (head mounted display) device. For example, the rotation input of the smart ring device (200) can be used for input of the external electronic device (300).

According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (300) may include a wheel-shaped input device, or may include another type of input device for receiving a rotational input form of a user. For example, the external electronic device (300) may include a physical button, a touch input device, or a pressure input device. Although a physical button, a touch input device, or a pressure input device cannot directly provide a rotational input, the external electronic device (300) may process an input identified by the physical button, the touch input device, or the pressure input device through software and convert it into a rotational input.

For example, the external electronic device (300) can identify the number of times a press input of a physical button is identified as an input according to the rotation of the wheel. For example, the external electronic device (300) can convert a slide input identified within a touch input area into rotation and rotation speed values of the wheel for a rotation input. For example, the external electronic device (300) can convert an area, pressure intensity, and maintenance time of a pressure input identified in a pressure input device into rotation amount and rotation speed values of the wheel.

According to an embodiment, the external electronic device (300) may include at least one of a dial, a jog shuttle, or a rotary input device. The external electronic device (300) may identify a rotation amount and/or a rotation speed using at least one of the dial, the jog shuttle, or the rotary input device. The external electronic device may also convert the rotation input into an input of another input device based on the rotation amount and/or the rotation speed.

According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (300) may include various input units for receiving a rotational input. For example, the external electronic device (300) may include a wheel input device for controlling a volume. For example, the external electronic device (300) may include a wheel input device for adjusting the pupillary distance. For example, the external electronic device (300) may include a wheel input device for adjusting the elasticity of a band that controls the external electronic device (300) to adhere to the user's head.

For example, the external electronic device (300) may include a wheel input device for controlling the immersion of a virtual environment. For example, the external electronic device (300) may change the degree of expression of an image displayed on a screen based on a rotation input amount. The external electronic device (300) may change the ratio of an input image identified through a camera and an image for a virtual environment displayed on the screen based on the rotation of the wheel input device. For example, the external electronic device (300) may change the transparency of contents of an area excluding contents of an area watched by a user based on the wheel input device. The external electronic device (300) may increase the user's sense of immersion by changing the transparency of contents of an area excluding contents of an area watched by a user.

At least one of the rotation inputs via various wheel input devices included in the external electronic device (300) described above may be provided via the rotation input of the smart ring device (200). For example, at least some of the rotation inputs via various wheel input devices included in the external electronic device (300) may be performed based on the rotation input of the smart ring device (200). The user may control the external electronic device (300) based on the rotation input of the smart ring device (200) without moving his/her hand to the external electronic device (300).

According to one embodiment, a function according to a rotation input of a smart ring device (200) may be performed in conjunction with at least one of a user's gaze, a user's voice command, and/or a user's gesture identified by an external electronic device (300).

For example, the external electronic device (300) can identify a rotation input of the smart ring device (200) while the user is looking at the volume control icon. The external electronic device (300) can change the volume size based on the identified rotation input while the user is looking at the volume control icon.

For example, the external electronic device (300) can identify a rotation input of the smart ring device (200) while the user is staring at a picture displayed on the screen. Based on the rotation input identified while the user is staring at the picture displayed on the screen, the external electronic device (300) can perform one of zooming in and/or zooming out of the picture.

For example, the external electronic device (300) can identify a rotation input of the smart ring device (200) along with a voice command from the user, such as “immersion control.” The external electronic device (300) can adjust various factors for controlling the immersion based on the voice command and the rotation input of the smart ring device (200).

In the above-described embodiment, an example of providing a function corresponding to an input of a physical button of an external electronic device (300) through a rotation input of a smart ring device (200) has been described, but is not limited thereto. For example, a function provided within a screen provided by an external electronic device (300) may be performed based on a rotation input of a smart ring device (200).

According to one embodiment, based on the rotation input of the smart ring device (200), functions corresponding to inputs of various buttons of the external electronic device (300) may be performed. As described above, the rotation input of the smart ring device (200) may be converted into other types of input. For example, when the rotation input is converted into a pressure input, the rotation amount and rotation speed of the rotation input may be converted into the strength of the pressure (or the amount of the pressure) of the button and the input speed, respectively. For example, when the rotation input is converted into a touch input (or a swipe input), the rotation amount and rotation speed of the rotation input may be converted into a movement area and a movement speed of the touch, respectively.

As described above, based on the rotation input of the smart ring device (200), a designated function of an external electronic device (300) directly or indirectly connected to the smart ring device (200) can be performed.

According to one embodiment, a touch input device may be placed on a part of a housing of an external electronic device (300) exposed to the outside. At least some of the functions assigned to the touch input device may be performed based on a rotation input of the smart ring device (200). For example, a scroll operation, an image zoom-in operation, and an image zoom-out operation through a touch input may be performed based on a rotation input of the smart ring device (200).

FIG. 21A illustrates an example of a connection between a smart ring device and an external electronic device, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 21b illustrates an example of a connection between a smart ring device and an external electronic device, according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 21A and 21B , the processor (210) of the smart ring device (200) can establish a connection with an external electronic device (300). The processor (210) of the smart ring device (200) can provide a notification to the user indicating the connection with the external electronic device (300). For example, the smart ring device (200) can include at least one of a sensor including a light-emitting unit (e.g., a PPG sensor (233) or an LED), a speaker, or a vibration actuator. The processor (210) can provide a notification indicating the connection with the external electronic device (300) by using at least one of the sensor including a light-emitting unit (e.g., a PPG sensor (233) or an LED), a speaker, or a vibration actuator. According to an embodiment, the processor (210) may also provide a notification based on a connection with two or more external devices including the external electronic device (300).

Referring to FIG. 21A, the smart ring device (200) may include a sensor (2105) disposed on the outer housing portion (204) (or the second surface (212)) and including a light emitting portion. The processor (210) may emit light of a specified color through the light emitting portion in response to establishing a connection with the external electronic device (300).

Referring to FIG. 21b, the smart ring device (200) may include a sensor (2107) disposed in the inner housing portion (203) (or the first surface (211)) and including a light emitting unit. The processor (210) may emit light of a specified color through the light emitting unit in response to establishing a connection with an external electronic device (300). According to an embodiment, when the smart ring device (200) including the sensor disposed in the inner housing portion (203) is worn by a user, the light emitted from the sensor may not be recognized by the user. Accordingly, when the smart ring device (200) is worn by a user, the sensor (2107) may not be used to emit light. When the smart ring device (200) is not worn or is operated while coupled (or attached) to another device, the processor (210) may emit light of a specified color using the sensor (2107) including the light emitting unit disposed in the inner housing portion (203).

FIGS. 21A and 21B illustrate examples of a notification being output from the smart ring device (200) when a connection with an external electronic device (300) is established, but are not limited thereto. The smart ring device (200) may also output a notification indicating that the external electronic device (300) is being connected. For example, the color of light (e.g., red) emitted according to a notification indicating that the external electronic device (300) is being connected may be distinguished from the color of light (e.g., green) emitted according to a notification indicating that a connection with the external electronic device (300) has been established.

FIG. 22 illustrates an example of connection between a smart ring device and an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

FIG. 23 illustrates an example of connection between a smart ring device and an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 22 and 23, the processor (210) of the smart ring device (200) can establish a connection with an external electronic device (300). The external electronic device (300) can provide a notification to the user indicating the connection with the smart ring device (200).

Referring to FIG. 22, the external electronic device (300) may display a screen (2210) indicating that a connection with the smart ring device (200) has been established through the display (330) of the external electronic device (300). The screen (2210) may include a visual object (2211) corresponding to the smart ring device (200) and text (2212) indicating that a connection with the smart ring device (200) has been established. As an example, the visual object (2211) may be displayed as a rotating animation.

Referring to FIG. 23, the external electronic device (300) can output a notification indicating that a connection with the smart ring device (200) has been established through a speaker (not shown) of the external electronic device (300). The external electronic device (300) can output a voice signal indicating that a connection with the smart ring device (200) has been established. Although not shown, the external electronic device (300) can provide a notification indicating that a connection with the smart ring device (200) has been established using a virtual screen including the smart ring device (200).

FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate examples of outputting a notification from an external electronic device (300) when a connection with a smart ring device (200) is established, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The external electronic device (300) may also output a notification indicating that the smart ring device (200) is being connected. According to an embodiment, the external electronic device (300) may include at least one of a sensor including a light-emitting unit (e.g., a PPG sensor or an LED), a speaker, or a vibration actuator. The external electronic device (300) may provide a notification indicating that a connection with the smart ring device (200) is established by using at least one of a sensor including a light-emitting unit (e.g., a PPG sensor or an LED), a speaker, or a vibration actuator.

Although FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate examples of providing a notification indicating that a connection has been established between an external electronic device (300) and a smart ring device (200), the present invention is not limited thereto. While a notification indicating that a connection has been established between an external electronic device (300) and a smart ring device (200) is provided, the smart ring device (200) may also provide a notification indicating a connection with an external electronic device (300), as shown in FIGS. 21a and 21b.

Although not illustrated, according to an embodiment, based on the establishment of a connection between an external electronic device (300) and a smart ring device (200), a notification may be provided from another external electronic device indicating that a connection is established between the external electronic device (300) and the smart ring device (200). For example, if it is difficult for the external electronic device (300) and the smart ring device (200) to provide the notification, the notification may be provided through a nearby connectable device or a device connected to the external electronic device (300) and the smart ring device (200) (e.g., another external electronic device).

FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary smart ring device, according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 24, the smart ring device (200) may include a first light emitting unit (2410) for identifying information about a user (e.g., health information). The first light emitting unit (2410) may be an example of one or more light emitting circuits (233-1) of a PPG sensor (233) of the smart ring device (200).

For example, the smart ring device (200) may include a second light emitting portion (not shown) for indicating a connection with an external electronic device. Light emitted from the second light emitting portion (not shown) for indicating a connection with an external electronic device may be emitted from the first side (213) and the second side (214) through a waveguide structure. The processor (210) may use the second light emitting portion (not shown) to emit light from the first side (213) and the second side (214) so that a user of the smart ring device (200) may identify that a connection with an external electronic device (300) has been established even while wearing the smart ring device (200).

According to one embodiment, the processor (210) may control the first light emitting unit (2410) and the second light emitting unit (not shown) according to the operation mode of the smart ring device (200). For example, the processor (210) may deactivate the second light emitting unit (not shown) while identifying information about the user (e.g., health information). The processor (210) may deactivate the second light emitting unit (not shown) so that interference by light emitted through the second light emitting unit (not shown) does not occur.

FIG. 25 illustrates an example of a smart ring device that can be coupled with an external electronic device, according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 25, the smart ring device (200) may include a plurality of magnetic bodies (2501). For example, the smart ring device (200) may include four magnetic bodies. The smart ring device (200) may include magnetic body (2501-1), magnetic body (2501-2), magnetic body (2501-3), and magnetic body (2501-4).

An external electronic device (2510) in the shape of a watch may include a hall IC (2511). The external electronic device (300) may identify that a magnetic body is in contact with a surface on which the hall IC (2511) is disposed, based on a signal identified by the hall IC (2511). The external electronic device (2510) may identify that a smart ring device (200) is in contact with a surface on which the hall IC (2511) is disposed, based on identifying that a magnetic body is in contact with a surface on which the hall IC (2511) is disposed. According to an embodiment, the external electronic device (2510) may establish a connection (e.g., NFC communication connection, Bluetooth communication connection) with the smart ring device (200) to identify whether the contacted magnetic body is a magnetic body included in the smart ring device (200).

An external electronic device (2520) for providing an AR service and/or a VR service may include a Hall IC (2521). The external electronic device (300) may identify that a magnetic body is in contact with a surface on which the Hall IC (2521) is disposed, based on a signal identified by the Hall IC (2521). The external electronic device (2520) may identify that a smart ring device (200) is in contact with a surface on which the Hall IC (2521) is disposed, based on identifying that a magnetic body is in contact with a surface on which the Hall IC (2521) is disposed. According to an embodiment, the external electronic device (2520) may establish a connection (e.g., NFC communication connection, Bluetooth communication connection) with the smart ring device (200) to identify whether the contacted magnetic body is a magnetic body included in the smart ring device (200).

According to one embodiment, the smart ring device (200) may provide a rotation input while in contact with (or attached to) a portion of an external electronic device (e.g., the external electronic device (2510) or the external electronic device (2520)). For example, the structure (215) of the smart ring device (200) may rotate while the smart ring device (200) is in contact with (or attached to) a portion of the external electronic device (e.g., the external electronic device (2510) or the external electronic device (2520)). The external electronic device (e.g., the external electronic device (2510) or the external electronic device (2520)) may identify the rotation input based on the rotation of the structure (215).

FIG. 26 illustrates an example of a smart ring device that can be coupled with an external electronic device, according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 26, the smart ring device (200) can operate while in contact with an external electronic device (2610). The external electronic device (2610) can include a Hall IC (2612). The external electronic device (2610) can identify that the smart ring device (200) is approaching the external electronic device (2610) by using the Hall IC (2612). The external electronic device (2610) can correspond to the external electronic device (2510) or the external electronic device (2520) of FIG. 25. For example, the Hall IC (2612) can be composed of two or more Hall ICs. The external electronic device (2610) can identify the direction of the rotation input through the smart ring device (200) based on the amount of change in signals acquired from the two or more Hall ICs.

According to one embodiment, when the external electronic device (2610) is configured in a watch shape, the external electronic device (2610) may have a Hall IC (2612) placed on one side corresponding to the display, like the external electronic device (2510) of FIG. 25. The external electronic device (2610) may identify that the smart ring device (200) is approaching (or making contact) using the Hall IC (2612). The external electronic device (2610) may display a screen for guiding the engagement (or making contact) through the shape of the smart ring device via the display.

According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (2610) may include a coupling structure (2611) for guiding the fastening of the smart ring device (200). The coupling structure (2611) may include one or more coupling portions. According to an embodiment, in the external electronic device (2610), a magnetic body may be placed at a location where the smart ring device (200) is fastened (or a location where the coupling structure (2611) is placed). Based on the magnetic body of the external electronic device (2610) and the magnetic body of the smart ring device (200), the smart ring device (200) may be fastened to the external electronic device (2610).

According to one embodiment, when the external electronic device (2610) is a wearable device for providing an AR service and/or a VR service, the external electronic device (2610) may include a protruding interface on which a smart ring device (200) may be mounted, which is disposed on an upper portion or a side portion of the external electronic device (2610). The protruding interface may be configured to be inserted into a hole (270) of the smart ring device (200). The external electronic device (2610) may identify a rotation input (or a rotation direction of the rotation input) of the smart ring device (200) by using a hole IC (2612).

FIG. 27 illustrates an example of operation of a smart ring device, a first external electronic device, and a second external electronic device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 27, in operation 2711, the smart ring device (200) can establish a connection with the first external electronic device (2701). The first external electronic device (2701) can establish a connection with the smart ring device (200).

In operation 2712, the smart ring device (200) may request a connection for rotation input to the first external electronic device (2701). The smart ring device (200) may transmit a message to the first external electronic device (2701) to request a connection for rotation input. Based on the message, the smart ring device (200) may request the first external electronic device (2701) to set up an interface for rotation input.

In operation 2713, the first external electronic device (2701) can transmit a message to the smart ring device (200) to acknowledge the connection for rotation input. The smart ring device (200) can receive the message to acknowledge the connection for rotation input from the first external electronic device (2701).

For example, the first external electronic device (2701) can identify whether a processing unit for processing a rotational input exists. Based on identifying that a processing unit for processing a rotational input exists, the first external electronic device (2701) can transmit a message to the smart ring device (200) to confirm a connection for the rotational input.

In operation 2714, the first external electronic device (2701) can perform a function of the first external electronic device (2701) according to the rotation input of the smart ring device (200). For example, the smart ring device (200) can identify the rotation input. The smart ring device (200) can transmit information about the rotation input to the first external electronic device (2701). The first external electronic device (2701) can perform a function mapped to the rotation input based on the information about the rotation input.

According to one embodiment, when the first external electronic device (2701) establishes a connection with the smart ring device (200), the function performed according to the rotation input identified by the first external electronic device (2701) may be performed based on the rotation input of the smart ring device (200).

According to one embodiment, when the smart ring device (200) establishes a connection with the first external electronic device (2701), the smart ring device (200) may not perform a function performed according to the rotation input identified in the smart ring device (200). The smart ring device (200) may transmit information about the rotation input to the first external electronic device (2701).

According to one embodiment, the smart ring device (200) and the first external electronic device (2701) can exchange information using Bluetooth communication. For example, the smart ring device (200) and the first external electronic device (2701) can maintain a connection based on Bluetooth communication or BLE (Bluetooth low energy) communication. Based on the connection, the smart ring device (200) can transmit information about a rotation input to the first external electronic device (2701), and the first external electronic device (2701) can perform a function according to the rotation input.

According to one embodiment, the smart ring device (200) and the first external electronic device (2701) can transmit and receive information based on broadcasting without a direct connection. When the broadcasting method is used, the first external electronic device (2701) can stand by in a listening mode. Based on the first external electronic device (2701) standing by in a listening mode, power consumption for receiving information about a rotation input transmitted from the smart ring device (200) in the first external electronic device (2701) can be reduced.

According to an embodiment, the smart ring device (200) may be set to transmit and receive information only at a designated timing (or designated cycle) with the first external electronic device (2701). The first external electronic device (2701) may continuously check the presence of the smart ring device (200) and receive various information from the smart ring device (200). According to an embodiment, the designated timing (or designated cycle) for the smart ring device (200) to transmit and receive information with the first external electronic device (2701) may be dynamically changed.

In operation 2715, the smart ring device (200) can establish a connection with a second external electronic device (2702). The second external electronic device (2702) can establish a connection with the smart ring device (200).

In operation 2716, the smart ring device (200) may request a disconnection for rotation input from the first external electronic device (2701). For example, the smart ring device (200) may transmit a message for requesting a disconnection for rotation input to the first external electronic device (2701). The first external electronic device (2701) may receive a message for requesting a disconnection for rotation input from the smart ring device (200).

In operation 2717, the first external electronic device (2701) can deactivate a function according to a rotation input. For example, if the first external electronic device (2701) does not include a device for a rotation input, a processing unit for processing a rotation input included in the first external electronic device (2701) can be deactivated. For example, if the first external electronic device (2701) includes a device for a rotation input, at least one component (e.g., a display) for performing a function for a rotation input identified in the first external electronic device (2701) can be activated.

At operation 2718, the smart ring device (200) may request a connection for rotation input to a second external electronic device (2702). Operation 2718 may correspond to operation 2712.

At operation 2719, the second external electronic device (2702) may transmit a message to the smart ring device (200) to acknowledge the connection for the rotation input. Operation 2719 may correspond to operation 2713.

In operation 2720, the second external electronic device (2702) can perform a function of the second external electronic device (2702) according to the rotation input of the smart ring device (200). Operation 2720 may correspond to operation 2714.

FIG. 28 illustrates a flowchart of operations of an external electronic device according to an embodiment. In the following embodiments, the operations may be performed sequentially, but are not necessarily performed sequentially. For example, the order of the operations may be changed, and at least two operations may be performed in parallel. The operations described below may be performed in the external electronic device (300).

Referring to FIG. 28, in operation 2810, the external electronic device (300) (or the processor (310) of the external electronic device (300)) can identify the approach of the smart ring device (200). For example, the external electronic device (300) can identify the approach of the smart ring device (200) using a hall IC. The external electronic device (300) can identify the approach of the smart ring device (200) based on a signal identified through the hall IC.

In operation 2820, the external electronic device (300) can identify whether the smart ring device (200) is connected. The external electronic device (300) can identify whether one side of the smart ring device (200) is in contact with the external electronic device (300) using a Hall IC. The external electronic device (300) can identify whether a connection with a smart ring device (200) located within a specified distance is established.

In operation 2830, when the smart ring device (200) is connected, the external electronic device (300) can display a screen based on the first type of user interface. For example, the first type of user interface can include a user interface controllable according to a rotation input.

Although not shown, the external electronic device (300) can identify that the connection with the smart ring device (200) has been disconnected. Based on identifying that the connection with the smart ring device (200) has been disconnected, the external electronic device (300) can change the screen displayed based on the first type of user interface to the screen displayed based on the second type of user interface.

In operation 2840, when the smart ring device (200) is not connected, the external electronic device (300) may display a screen based on a second type of user interface. For example, the second type of user interface may include a user interface that is controllable according to an input that is distinct from a rotation input (e.g., a swipe input, a button input, or a pressure input).

FIG. 29 illustrates an example of operation of a smart ring device and an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 29, the smart ring device (200) can be connected to an external electronic device (300). When the external electronic device (300) and the smart ring device (200) are connected to each other, a series of operations (e.g., operation 2714 or operation 2720 of FIG. 27) for performing a part of a function of the external electronic device (300) based on a rotation input of the smart ring device (200) can be performed. The external electronic device (300) can identify whether the executed application supports a rotation input based on the execution of the application.

For example, a designated application running on an external electronic device (300) may support a function for rotation input. The external electronic device (300) may set a function of the designated application to be performed through rotation input based on the execution of the designated application.

For example, the specified application may be a music playback application. The external electronic device (300) may display a screen (2910) including a user interface for the specified application through the display (330). The screen (2910) may include an area (2920) for displaying a list of music to be played (2930). Within the area (2920), the display of the music list (2930) may be changed based on a rotation input of the smart ring device (200). For example, based on a rotation input according to a direction (2901) identified in the smart ring device (200), the display of the music list (2930) within the area (2920) may be moved along the direction (2911). For example, based on a rotation input along a direction (2902) identified in a smart ring device (200), a display of a music list (2930) within an area (2920) may be moved along the direction (2912).

According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (300) may indicate that the display of content (i.e., the music list (2930)) displayed in the area (2920) may be changed by a rotation input of the smart ring device (200). As an example, the external electronic device (300) may change the color of the area (2920) and/or visual objects included in the area (2920) (e.g., icons for indicating the music list (2930)).

In some embodiments, based on termination of a specified application, the external electronic device (300) may not receive information about rotation input from the smart ring device (200).

FIG. 30 illustrates an example of operation of a smart ring device and external electronic devices according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 30, the smart ring device (200) can establish a connection with the electronic device (3000). The smart ring device (200) may not be directly connected to the external electronic device (3001) and the external electronic device (3002).

The smart ring device (200) can be connected to an external electronic device (3001) and an external electronic device (3002) through the electronic device (3000). The electronic device (3000) can support a connection between the smart ring device (200) and one or more external electronic devices (e.g., the external electronic device (3001) and the external electronic device (3002)).

The electronic device (3000) can receive information about a rotation input from the smart ring device (200). The electronic device (3000) can display a screen for determining an external electronic device (e.g., the external electronic device (3001) or the external electronic device (3002)) to which information about the rotation input received from the smart ring device (200) will be transmitted. The electronic device (3000) can receive an input from a user for determining an external electronic device to which information about the rotation input received from the smart ring device (200) will be transmitted. The electronic device (3000) can transmit information about the rotation input received from the smart ring device (200) to an external electronic device (e.g., the external electronic device (3001) or the external electronic device (3002)) determined based on the received input.

According to one embodiment, either the external electronic device (3001) or the external electronic device (3002) may be tagged with the smart ring device (200). For example, when the smart ring device (200) is tagged with the external electronic device (3001), the smart ring device (200) may transmit information about the external electronic device (3001) to the electronic device (3000). The electronic device (3000) may transmit information about the rotation input to the external electronic device (3001) based on the information about the external electronic device (3001).

After the smart ring device (200) is tagged with the external electronic device (3001), the smart ring device (200) can be tagged with the external electronic device (3002). The smart ring device (200) can change the target device for the information on the rotational input. The smart ring device (200) can change the target device for the information on the rotational input from the external electronic device (3001) to the external electronic device (3002). The smart ring device (200) can transmit information indicating that the target device for the information on the rotational input has been changed from the external electronic device (3001) to the external electronic device (3002) to the electronic device (3000). The electronic device (3000) can transmit the information on the rotational input to the external electronic device (3002) based on the information received from the smart ring device (200).

FIG. 31 illustrates an example of operation of a smart ring device and external electronic devices according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 31, in operation 3101, the smart ring device (200) can establish a connection with an external electronic device (300). For example, operation 3101 may correspond to operation 2711 of FIG. 27.

In operation 3102, the smart ring device (200) and the external electronic device (300) can operate in an operation mode for identifying information about the user. The smart ring device (200) can identify (or obtain) information about the user (e.g., health information) using the PPG sensor (233). The smart ring device (200) can transmit information about the user to the external electronic device (300). The external electronic device (300) can provide a service based on the information about the user.

In operation 3103, at least one of the smart ring device (200) and the external electronic device (300) can identify a connection event for rotation input. For example, the connection event for rotation input can include an event in which the smart ring device (200) and the external electronic device (300) come into contact with each other. For example, the connection event for rotation input can include an event in which a specified application is executed (or activated). In response to the execution (or activation) of the specified application, the external electronic device (300) can transmit a message for a connection request to the smart ring device (200). The smart ring device (200) can transmit a message for a connection response to the external electronic device (300). The smart ring device (200) and the external electronic device (103) can establish a connection for rotation input based on the message for the connection response.

The smart ring device (200) can activate a function for identifying the rotation input based on a connection event for the rotation input. The external electronic device (300) can activate a function for receiving information about the rotation input from the smart ring device (200) based on a connection event for the rotation input.

In operation 3104, the smart ring device (200) may request a connection for rotation input to an external electronic device (300). Operation 3104 may correspond to operation 2712 of FIG. 27.

In operation 3105, the external electronic device (300) may transmit a message to the smart ring device (200) to confirm a connection for rotation input. Operation 3105 may correspond to operation 2713 of FIG. 27.

In operation 3106, the external electronic device (300) can perform a function of the external electronic device (300) according to the rotation input of the smart ring device (200). Operation 3106 may correspond to operation 2714 of FIG. 27.

Referring to operations 3101 to 3106, even when the smart ring device (200) and the external electronic device (300) are connected, the smart ring device (200) may not transmit information about the rotation input to the external electronic device (300). For example, the smart ring device (200) may transmit information about the rotation input to the external electronic device (300) based on contact with the external electronic device (300). For example, based on a specified application being executed on the external electronic device (300), the smart ring device (200) may transmit information about the rotation input to the external electronic device (300). According to an embodiment, if the specified application is not executed, an operation specified in the system UI may be performed based on the rotation input of the smart ring device (200). In an embodiment, if a module for processing (or receiving) a rotational input exists in an application or a function, the rotational input may be processed through the module when the application or the function is activated.

FIG. 32 illustrates an example of operation of a plurality of smart ring devices and an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 32, a user may wear multiple smart ring devices and external electronic devices. For example, a user may wear a first smart ring device (3231), a second smart ring device (3232), and an external electronic device (3240).

The first smart ring device (3231) can be worn on a finger of the user's left hand (3210). The second smart ring device (3232) can be worn on a finger of the user's right hand (3220). The external electronic device (3240) can be worn on the wrist of the user's left hand (3210).

According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (3240) may provide data about the smart ring device based on the mutual directionality between the external electronic device (3240) and the smart ring device (e.g., the first smart ring device (3231) and the second smart ring device (3232)).

For example, the external electronic device (3240) may identify a device for performing a function of the external electronic device (3240) as one of the first smart ring device (3231) and the second smart ring device (3232). The external electronic device (3240) may include a rotatable wheel key (or bezel). The external electronic device (3240) may set the device for performing the function of the external electronic device (3240) as one of the first smart ring device (3231) and the second smart ring device (3232) based on the rotation of the wheel key. Based on the rotation of the wheel key in a counterclockwise direction, the first smart ring device (3231) may be selected as the device for performing the function of the external electronic device (3240). Based on the rotation of the wheel key in a clockwise direction, the second smart ring device (3232) may be selected as the device for performing the function of the external electronic device (3240).

A rotation input identified in one of the first smart ring device (3231) and the second smart ring device (3232) based on the rotation of the wheel key can be mapped to at least one function of the external electronic device (3240).

According to one embodiment, a smart ring device may include a housing including an external housing portion and an inner housing portion that is at least partially transparent, a light emitter that emits light through the inner housing portion, a first light receiver that receives the light reflected on at least a portion of a finger of a user, a second light receiver that receives the light reflected on at least a portion of the finger of the user, and a processor. The processor may be configured to determine a wearing direction of the smart ring device using a first signal identified by the first light receiver and a second signal identified by the second light receiver.

According to one embodiment, the smart ring device may include a third light-receiving unit and a fourth light-receiving unit that receive the light reflected on at least a portion of the user's finger. The processor may be configured to determine the wearing direction of the smart ring device based on the first signal, the second signal, the third signal, and the fourth signal respectively (respectively) identified by the first light-receiving unit, the second light-receiving unit, the third light-receiving unit, and the fourth light-receiving unit.

According to one embodiment, the first light receiving unit and the second light receiving unit may be configured as one sensor. The first light receiving unit may include at least one photodiode related to the sensor. The second light receiving unit may include at least another photodiode related to the sensor.

In one embodiment, the first signal may include a first value corresponding to an amount of light reflected from at least a portion of the finger. The second signal may include a second value corresponding to an amount of light reflected from at least a portion of the finger. The processor may be configured to determine the wearing direction of the smart ring device based on the first value and the second value.

According to one embodiment, the processor may be configured to determine the wearing direction of the smart ring device based on an amount of change in the first value and an amount of change in the second value.

According to one embodiment, the processor may be configured to obtain at least one piece of biometric information using the light emitting unit, the first light receiving unit, and the second light receiving unit.

In one embodiment, the processor may be configured to determine the wearing direction of the smart ring device based on performing a first light emission using the light emitting unit. The processor may be configured to acquire the at least one biometric information based on performing a second light emission, which is distinct from the first light emission, using the light emitting unit. The second light emission may differ from the first light emission in at least one of an intensity of light, a light emission time, or a light emission cycle.

According to one embodiment, the processor may be configured to determine light intensity of an environment using the first light receiving unit or the second light receiving unit. The processor may be configured to adjust at least one of the intensity of the light emitted through the light emitting unit, the light emission time, or the light emission cycle to determine the wearing direction of the smart ring device based on the light intensity of the environment.

In one embodiment, the processor may be configured to adjust a threshold value for determining the wearing direction of the smart ring device depending on the intensity of the light in the environment.

According to one embodiment, the smart ring device may include an acceleration sensor. The processor may be configured to detect movement of the smart ring device using the acceleration sensor. The processor may be configured to determine the wearing direction of the smart ring device based on the movement of the smart ring device.

According to one embodiment, the processor may be configured to determine a direction of a user input based on the determined wearing direction.

In one embodiment, the processor may be configured to identify a posture of the smart ring device using the acceleration sensor. The processor may be configured to perform an up and down scroll in response to the user input, based at least in part on a determination that the posture of the smart ring device corresponds to a first posture. The processor may be further configured to perform a left and right scroll in response to the user input, based at least in part on a determination that the posture of the smart ring device corresponds to a second posture.

In one embodiment, the processor may be configured to transmit information corresponding to the wearing direction to an external electronic device, so as to display at least one indication indicating the wearing direction through a display of the external electronic device operatively connected to the smart ring device.

In one embodiment, the smart ring device may include a first antenna configured to emit a signal in a first direction (in), and a second antenna configured to emit the signal in a second direction different from the first direction. The processor may be configured to transmit the signal using the first antenna or the second antenna based on the wearing direction of the smart ring device.

According to one embodiment, the smart ring device may include a structure rotatable on the outer housing portion about a center of a hole of the smart ring device, and a rotation detection sensor for identifying a direction of rotation of the structure.

In one embodiment, the processor may be configured to identify that the smart ring device is in contact with the housing of the external electronic device. The processor may be configured to establish a connection with the external electronic device based on identifying that the smart ring device is in contact with the housing of the external electronic device.

In one embodiment, the processor may be configured to identify a rotational input based on a rotation of the structure while the smart ring device is in contact with the housing of the external electronic device. The processor may be configured to perform a set function according to the wearing direction of the smart ring device based on the rotational input.

In one embodiment, the smart ring device may include a touch sensor for identifying a contact of the user's body on the outer housing portion. The processor may be configured to identify a rotational input based on identifying one of a first touch input maintained along a first direction on the outer housing portion and a second touch input maintained along a second direction opposite to the first direction on the outer housing portion.

According to one embodiment, a method performed by a smart ring device may include an operation of emitting light using a light emitting unit included in the smart ring device. The method may include an operation of determining a wearing direction of the smart ring device using a first signal identified based on the light reflected from at least a portion of a user's finger by a first light receiving unit included in the smart ring device and a second signal identified based on the light reflected from at least a portion of the user's finger by a second light receiving unit included in the smart ring device.

In one embodiment, the first signal may include a first value corresponding to an amount of light reflected from at least a portion of the finger. The second signal may include a second value corresponding to an amount of light reflected from at least a portion of the finger. The method may include an operation of determining the wearing direction of the smart ring device based on the first value and the second value.

According to one embodiment, the method may include an operation of determining the wearing direction of the smart ring device based on an amount of change in the first value and an amount of change in the second value.

According to one embodiment, the method may include an operation of obtaining at least one biometric information using the light emitting unit, the first light receiving unit, and the second light receiving unit.

According to one embodiment, a non-transitory computer readable storage medium may store one or more programs. The one or more programs may include instructions that, when executed by a processor of a smart ring device having a light emitter, a first light receiver, and a second light receiver, cause the smart ring device to emit light using the light emitter. The one or more programs may include instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the smart ring device to determine a wearing direction of the smart ring device using a first signal identified based on light reflected from at least a portion of a user's finger from the first light receiver and a second signal identified based on light reflected from at least a portion of the user's finger from the second light receiver.

In one embodiment, a smart ring device may include a housing including an external housing portion and an inner housing portion that is at least partially transparent, a light emitter that emits light through the inner housing portion, a first light receiver that receives the light reflected off at least a portion of a finger of a user, a second light receiver that receives the light reflected off at least a portion of the finger of the user, and at least one processor including a processing circuit, and a memory storing instructions, the memory including one or more storage media. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the smart ring device to determine a wearing direction of the smart ring device using a first signal identified by the first light receiver and a second signal identified by the second light receiver.

For example, the smart ring device may include a third light-receiving unit and a fourth light-receiving unit that receive the light reflected on at least a portion of the user's finger. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the smart ring device to determine the wearing direction of the smart ring device based on the first signal, the second signal, the third signal, and the fourth signal respectively (respectively) identified by the first light-receiving unit, the second light-receiving unit, the third light-receiving unit, and the fourth light-receiving unit.

For example, the first light receiving unit and the second light receiving unit may be configured as one sensor. The first light receiving unit may include at least one photodiode related to the sensor. The second light receiving unit may include at least another photodiode related to the sensor.

For example, the first signal may include a first value corresponding to an amount of light reflected from at least a portion of the finger. The second signal may include a second value corresponding to an amount of light reflected from at least a portion of the finger. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the smart ring device to determine the wearing direction of the smart ring device based on the first value and the second value.

For example, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the smart ring device to determine the wearing orientation of the smart ring device based on an amount of change in the first value and an amount of change in the second value.

For example, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the smart ring device to acquire at least one piece of biometric information using the light emitting unit, the first light receiving unit, and the second light receiving unit.

For example, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the smart ring device to determine the wearing direction of the smart ring device based on performing a first light emission using the light emitting unit. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the smart ring device to acquire the at least one biometric information based on performing a second light emission using the light emitting unit, the second light emission being distinct from the first light emission. The second light emission may differ from the first light emission in at least one of an intensity of light, an emission time, or an emission period.

For example, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the smart ring device to determine, using the first light receiver or the second light receiver, a light intensity of an environment. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the smart ring device to adjust at least one of an intensity of the light emitted through the light emitter, a light emission time, or a light emission cycle to determine the wearing direction of the smart ring device based on the light intensity of the environment.

For example, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the smart ring device to adjust a threshold value for determining the wearing orientation of the smart ring device depending on the light intensity of the environment.

For example, the smart ring device may include an acceleration sensor. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the smart ring device to detect movement of the smart ring device using the acceleration sensor. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the smart ring device to determine the wearing direction of the smart ring device based on the movement of the smart ring device.

For example, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the smart ring device to determine a direction of a user input based on the determined wearing orientation.

For example, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the smart ring device to identify a posture of the smart ring device using the acceleration sensor. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the smart ring device to perform an up and down scroll in response to the user input, based at least in part on a determination that the posture of the smart ring device corresponds to a first posture. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the smart ring device to perform a left and right scroll in response to the user input, based at least in part on a determination that the posture of the smart ring device corresponds to a second posture.

For example, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, may cause the smart ring device to transmit information corresponding to the wearing direction to an external electronic device operatively connected to the smart ring device to represent at least one indicative display of the wearing direction.

According to one embodiment, a method performed by a smart ring device may include an operation of emitting light using a light emitting unit included in the smart ring device. The method may include an operation of determining a wearing direction of the smart ring device using a first signal identified based on the light reflected from at least a portion of a user's finger by a first light receiving unit included in the smart ring device and a second signal identified based on the light reflected from at least a portion of the user's finger by a second light receiving unit included in the smart ring device.

According to one embodiment, a non-transitory computer readable storage medium may store one or more programs. The one or more programs may include instructions that, when executed by a processor of a smart ring device having a light emitter, a first light receiver, and a second light receiver, cause the smart ring device to emit light using the light emitter. The one or more programs may include instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the smart ring device to determine a wearing direction of the smart ring device using a first signal identified based on light reflected from at least a portion of a user's finger from the first light receiver and a second signal identified based on light reflected from at least a portion of the user's finger from the second light receiver.

Electronic devices according to embodiments disclosed in this document may be devices of various forms. The electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to embodiments of this document are not limited to the above-described devices.

The embodiments of this document and the terminology used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first", "second", or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

In one embodiment of this document, the term "module" used may include a unit implemented in hardware, software or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit, for example. A module may be a component configured integrally or a minimum unit of the component or a part thereof, which performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

One embodiment of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., the electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g. electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

According to one embodiment, the method according to one embodiment disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a commodity. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., a compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., by download or upload) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a part of the computer program product may be at least temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as a memory of a manufacturer's server, a server of an application store, or an intermediary server.

According to one embodiment, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include a single or multiple entities, and some of the multiple entities may be separated and arranged in other components. According to one embodiment, one or more components or operations of the above-described components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into one component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each component of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component of the plurality of components before the integration. According to one embodiment, the operations performed by the module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims (15)

For smart ring devices, A housing comprising an external housing portion and an inner housing portion that is at least partially transparent; A light emitter that emits light through the inner housing portion; A first light receiver for receiving the light reflected from at least a portion of a user's finger; A second light receiving unit that receives the light reflected from at least a part of the finger of the user; At least one processor comprising a processing circuit; and A memory storing instructions and including one or more storage media, The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, Causing the smart ring device to determine the wearing direction of the smart ring device by using the first signal identified in the first light receiving unit and the second signal identified in the second light receiving unit. Smart ring device. In the first paragraph, the smart ring device, Further comprising a third light-receiving unit and a fourth light-receiving unit for receiving the light reflected on at least a part of the finger of the user; The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, Causing the smart ring device to determine the wearing direction of the smart ring device based on the first signal, the second signal, the third signal, and the fourth signal respectively (respectively) identified in the first light receiving unit, the second light receiving unit, the third light receiving unit, and the fourth light receiving unit. Smart ring device. In the first paragraph, the first light receiving unit and the second light receiving unit, It is configured as a single sensor, The above first light receiving unit, At least one photodiode for said sensor, The above second light receiving unit, At least one other photodiode comprising the sensor Smart ring device. In the first paragraph, the first signal is, a first value corresponding to the magnitude of said light reflected on at least a portion of said finger, The second signal above is, a second value corresponding to the magnitude of said light reflected from at least a portion of said finger; The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, Causing the smart ring device to determine the wearing direction of the smart ring device based on the first value and the second value. Smart ring device. In the fourth paragraph, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, Causing the smart ring device to determine the wearing direction of the smart ring device based on the amount of change in the first value and the amount of change in the second value. Smart ring device. In the first paragraph, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, Causing the smart ring device to obtain at least one piece of biometric information using the light emitting unit, the first light receiving unit, and the second light receiving unit. Smart ring device. In the sixth paragraph, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, Based on performing first light emission using the above light emitting unit, the wearing direction of the smart ring device is determined, Causing the smart ring device to acquire at least one biometric information based on performing a second light emission that is distinct from the first light emission using the light emitting portion; The above second emission is, At least one of the first light emission and the light intensity, light emission time, or light emission cycle is different, Smart ring device. In the first paragraph, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, Using the first light receiving unit or the second light receiving unit, the light intensity of the environment is determined, Causing the smart ring device to adjust at least one of the intensity of the light emitted through the light emitting portion, the light emission time, or the light emission cycle, based on the light intensity of the environment, to determine the wearing direction of the smart ring device. Smart ring device. In the 8th paragraph, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, Causing the smart ring device to adjust a threshold value for determining the wearing direction of the smart ring device according to the intensity of the light in the environment. Smart ring device. In the first paragraph, the smart ring device, Including an acceleration sensor, The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, Using the above acceleration sensor, the movement of the smart ring device is detected, Causing the smart ring device to determine the wearing direction of the smart ring device based on the movement of the smart ring device. Smart ring device. In the 10th paragraph, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, Causing the smart ring device to determine the direction of user input based on the determined wearing direction. Smart ring device. In the 11th paragraph, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, Using the above acceleration sensor, the posture of the smart ring device is identified, Performing an up/down scroll according to the user input based at least in part on a determination that the posture of the smart ring device corresponds to a first posture; Causing said smart ring device to perform a left-right scroll in response to said user input, based at least in part on a determination that said posture of said smart ring device corresponds to a second posture; Smart ring device. In the first paragraph, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the at least one processor, Causing the smart ring device to transmit information corresponding to the wearing direction to the external electronic device, to represent at least one indicative indication of the wearing direction through a display of the external electronic device operatively connected to the smart ring device. Smart ring device. In a method performed by a smart ring device, An operation of emitting light using a light emitting unit included in the smart ring device; and An operation of determining a wearing direction of the smart ring device by using a first signal identified based on the light reflected from at least a portion of the user's finger by a first light receiving unit included in the smart ring device and a second signal identified based on the light reflected from at least a portion of the user's finger by a second light receiving unit included in the smart ring device, method. In a non-transitory computer readable storage medium storing one or more programs, the one or more programs, when executed by a processor of a smart ring device having a light emitter, a first light receiver, and a second light receiver, By using the above light emitting part, light is emitted, Including instructions for causing the smart ring device to determine a wearing direction of the smart ring device by using a first signal identified based on light reflected from at least a portion of the user's finger at the first light receiving unit and a second signal identified based on light reflected from at least a portion of the user's finger at the second light receiving unit. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium.

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